Make the most of Medicare’s open enrollment until December 7

Marilyn Brohm |

Medicare’s open enrollment season is upon us. That means from now until December 7, you are able to make changes to your Medicare Advantage and prescription drug coverage. If you’re happy with your coverage, you don’t have to do anything.

Even if you’re satisfied, open enrollment presents a great opportunity to make sure you’re getting the most out of Medicare. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Ask yourself some important questions. Have your needs changed? Is your current coverage adequate? Will the cost of your current plan be going up? Are there comparable, lower-cost plans available?

  • Review the annual notice of change from your current plan provider. You should have received this in September.
  • Compare plans using the Medicare Plan Finder at https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan
  • Get one-on-one assistance from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at https://shipnpr.shiptalk.org.
  • Call the Medicare Rights Center at 800.333.4114 for free counseling.