Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage open enrollment is right around the corner. The Part D Prescription Drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries began in 2006. We are now gearing up for the fifth open enrollment period, which occurs annually from Nov. 15 through Dec. 31. Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to evaluate their current plan and make changes that will take effect Jan. 1, 2010. There are only a few special circumstances when a person is allowed to make a plan change beyond these dates, so it is important to use this time to make the best decision possible for you.

Every year after open enrollment ends, the Senior LinkAge Line® receives calls from people who failed to open their mail and read about their current drug plan changes for the coming year. It isn't until the first bill for the year is received, or the beneficiary is charged more at the pharmacy, that they realize their plan has changed. For most of these beneficiaries, it is too late to make a change for that year.

The Senior LinkAge Line® has been assisting people with Part D plan selection since the beginning of Medicare Part D. The goal each year is to help beneficiaries find the plan that best meets their needs, which most likely includes covering their medications at the lowest cost possible while allowing use of their community pharmacy. Since there are so many changes every year, the Senior LinkAge Line® recommends that each person review their options for the next year and open and read every piece of mail received from their plan.

A few reasons to consider a "re-evaluation" of your Part D plan:

o Monthly premiums for each plan will most likely change

o Your medicate list may have changed in the last year

o Plan formularies (the list of drugs covered by the plan) may change and the cost sharing may change (amount you pay for the drug under a plan)

o You may be eligible for the "extra help" offered to pay premiums and reduce co-pay amounts (applications are accepted at any time of the year)

Using the official Medicare. gov prescription plan comparison tool, the staff and volunteers of the Senior LinkAge Line® are able to show beneficiaries a clear comparison of their current plan with plans available in 2010. The plan comparison tool will clearly present the cost of the individual's medications in each plan offered in Minnesota. With this knowledge, a person can make a sound decision on a drug plan and prepare for the coming year with confi- dence and peace of mind.

Anyone can access the website tool at www.Medicare. gov or call Medicare for assistance (1-800-633- 4227). Medicare beneficiaries or caregivers may also call the Senior LinkAge Line® (1-800-333-2433) to request an in person visit for a plan comparison to be done. Appointments including phone and in person help are available in 87 counties. Staff and volunteers are prepared to offer unbiased, objective counseling and plan comparison assistance to help choose the Medicare Part D plan that will serve you best.