Did you know that open enrollment for Medicare is just around the bend? Open enrollment begins October 15th and goes till December 7th, but you can start reviewing plans now. Each year, it’s wise to take a look at the plans’ costs and coverage.

Medicare.gov has a new online Plan Finder tool that will help recommend plans customized for you. Health care options can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. If you need help navigating your options, ask your friends and family to recommend a trusted insurance agent. Washington State also offers help through Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA). Washington state's SHIBA provides free, unbiased, and confidential help with Medicare and health insurance to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Advisors can help you with the following:

• Assess health care coverage needs
• Determine general eligibility for health care coverage programs
• Evaluate and compare health insurance plans and programs
• Provide enrollment help with Medicare
• Speak with Medicare by phone on your behalf
• Make referrals to other agencies and programs
• Collect and report possible fraud complaints

To find a SHIBA advisor near you in Washington, click here or call 1-800-562-6900.

For residents in Oregon, go to click here or call 1-800-722-4134.

If you have a Medicare prescription drug plan (called Part D), you should review your list of prescriptions every year on the Medicare.gov website or with the help of an advisor. A plan’s premium can fluctuate, or a plan may drop medications from its list of preferred prescription drugs or switch pharmacies for preferred pricing. You’ll want to make sure your current prescriptions will still be covered and make sure your plan is getting you the best value. You can shop for a drug coverage plan that best covers your prescriptions, here.

Here’s to a healthy, happy year! We’re here to support you along the way.