>Medicare The open enrollment period is from October 15th to December 7th

> Federal Medicare The open enrollment period is from October 15th to December 7th. This information is provided to you by the "U.S. Department of Health and Human Services". Your health needs...

Medicare enrollment is open from October 15 to December 7. This information is provided to you by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Your health needs change every year. Also, your health insurance plan may change benefits and costs from year to year. Therefore, it is important to evaluate your Medicare options each year. "Open Enrollment" is an opportunity provided by Medicare once a year for all Medicare insured persons to learn about the new benefits of Medicare and to change their coverage. There's never been a better time to learn about Medicare coverage. Whether you choose Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, new benefits are available to all Medicare recipients, including lower prescription costs, wellness exams and preventive care. Take advantage of open enrollment and you might save money, get better coverage, or even both. What are the benefits of registering in advance? Starting this year, Open Enrollment begins earlier than October 15th and is extended (lasts a full 7 weeks), giving you enough time to review and make changes to your coverage. However, starting this year as well, you will have to make your final choices before December 7 to determine your "Medicare" coverage for the coming year. This change is to ensure that Medicare has ample time to process your choices so that your coverage can take effect without interruption on January 1. It's worth taking the time to review and compare, but you don't have to do it alone. If you typically use the December holidays to discuss health care options with family or friends, start early now. And, remember, Medicare is always here to help. a. Visit www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan to compare your current coverage with the options available where you live; if you decide you want to make a change, sign up for a new plan. b. Call (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day/7 days a week to inquire about your coverage options. People with hearing and speech impairments should call (1-877-486-2048). If you need help in a language other than English or Spanish, say "Agent" at any time to speak with a customer service representative. c. Review the Medicare & You 2012 brochure, which was mailed to all Medicare recipients in September. d. You can get one-on-one service from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Please call 1-800-633-4227 or go to www.medicare.gov/contacts for phone numbers. e. To receive assistance in Chinese, please call the National Center for Asian and Pacific American Aging (NAPCA) (1-800-582-4218).