If you are already a Medicare beneficiary, chances are you've already heard about this. In case you have not, or have ignored the information, kindly be aware that the Annual Enrollment Period dates have changed this year, and the previous Open Enrollment period has been discontinued.

Now, you can change plans during the new Annual Enrollment Period which begins next Saturday, October 15 and goes through December 7th. (previously 11/15 to 12/31).

The Open Enrollment period (Jan, Feb, Mar) has been discontinued, although you can disenroll from an Advantage plan during the first 6 weeks of the year.

I am often asked how that may affect a Medicare beneficiary. Here are a few examples:

Suppose you only have Medicare parts A and B, and decide you wish to enroll in an Advantage plan. You can do so during the Annual Enrollment Period.

Perhaps you already have an Advantage Plan and wish to switch to another, or you have a Supplement and Part D plan and wish to change into an Advantage plan.....this AEP is the time to do so.

Regardless, it is always wise to review your current coverage and also to take a look at your options each year. Plans and coverages can change, as well as your needs.

If you have someone that helps you with making these kinds of decisions, should you meet with someone who will assist you with understanding your options, have your family member or advisor (or Power of Attorney) with you when you review your options.

Keep in mind, any agent who you meet to discuss either Advantage Plans and/or Part D plans is required to get a signed Scope of Appointment form from you in advance of your meeting. This does not obligate you or enroll or disenroll you in anything. It is for your protection, and advises you this person is not an employee of Medicare or Social Security and may or may not receive a commission should you enroll through them. If the person you are meeting fails to get this signed SOA from you, they are not following regulations, and that should be a warning to you regarding their failure to follow the rules. If you are only going to discuss Supplement plans, the SOA is not required, however if during your meeting you decide you want to learn about Advantage Plans or Part D, then one will be required. Whomever is attending the meeting will be required to sign a SOA form, as well.

I am posting this in General Community because there are people under the age of 65 who are Medicare beneficiaries. Also, there are plenty of care-givers and family members looking out for seniors who attend to their health insurance issues.

I have a United Health Care Medicare booth at the Healdsburg Safeway Tues - Sat 10 am - 2 pm until Dec 7, (except Thanksgiving week and 10/15), in the event you are in the 'hood and wish to learn more or schedule a private appointment.

Biz Wrangler