The open enrollment period is an annual opportunity for those enrolled in Medicare to reevaluate their plans and runs until December 7.

Medicare beneficiaries can compare their options for health and prescription drug coverage. Jack Myers explains this includes Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap plans, and Medicare Prescription Drug plans, and signing up now makes them effective Jan. 1, 2025.

If you are happy with your current plan and don't see any major changes to it, you don't need to do anything. Myers directs anyone wanting to compare plans on Medicare's website at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-Medicare. In IL you can also call the Senior Health Insurance Program through the IL Dept on Aging at 1-800-252-8966.

During Open Enrollment, Social Security always reminds of the 'Extra Help' program and Myers explains how it works and pertains to Open Enrollment.

Again, Open Enrollment lasts until Dec. 7. Get more information at medicare.gov or call 800-MEDICARE.