Medicare Part D Open Enrollment
Each year plans change what they cost and what they cover.  The next general open enrollment starts November 15, 2009 and runs through December 31, 2009.  During this time, people with Medicare can add, drop, or change their prescription drug coverage.  They can also select a health plan for their 2010 coverage. 

What can I do during this period?
The Open Enrollment period for Medicare prescription drug coverage will begin on November 15, 2009 and end on December 31, 2009.  Below is a list of the things that you can do during this time.

• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan.
• Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare.
• Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan.
• Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage to another Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage.
• Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
• Switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to another Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
• Drop your Medicare Prescription Drug coverage completely.

When am I eligible for enrollment in Medicare part D?
You can sign up for Medicare part d coverage when you first become eligible for Medicare or when you turn 65, during your Initial Enrollment Period.  If you wait to get Medicare prescription drug coverage (part D) until after your first eligible, you may have to pay a penalty to get it later, depending on your circumstances. 

Initial Enrollment is during the 7 month period that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after you turn 65.

The next general open enrollment starts this year on November 15, 2009 and ends on December 31, 2009.

To compare plans in your area you can visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)

Published 11/10/09