MONROE - During the annual Medicare open enrollment period from Tuesday, Oct. 15 through Saturday, Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries should check their prescription drug and health plan coverage to assure they have the best possible coverage and choose a new plan if needed, advises staff from the Green County Aging and Disability Resource Center.

Any plan or coverage changes that participants make will become effective Jan. 1.

There is no cost to switch plans, but there may be much higher costs for prescriptions or health care scheduled to take effect in the new year. Participants should avoid the unexpected, including:

• Monthly premium increases

• Higher co-pays or deductibles

• Changes to the list of covered prescription drugs

• New quantity limits

• Changes in coverage areas for current Medicare Advantage Plans or Part D plans

• The availability of new and more cost efficient Medicare plans

For more information, contact the Green County Aging and Disability Resource Center at 608-328-9499; if beneficiaries are under the age of 60, contact the Disability Drug Benefit Helpline at 800-926-4862; if beneficiaries are 60 or over, contact the Medigap Part D and Prescription Drug Helpline at 855-677-2783; or contact the Medigap Helpline at 800-242-1060.