In an effort to assist Missourians enrolled in Medicare, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) is reminding constituents that the Open Enrollment period for the program ends on Wednesday, December 7, 2011.

This year’s Open Enrollment started on October 15, and is the annual period in which seniors can change their Medicare health and drug plans for the coming year. Luetkemeyer said people still have an opportunity to compare and make decisions  on coverage options, while ensuring that they will have essential plan materials and membership cards in hand on January 1, 2012, when new coverage starts.

There is a wide range of health and drug plan options available, including Original Medicare. Most people with Medicare can choose a “Part D” plan to help them pay for prescription drugs.  Seniors who enroll in a “Part C” Medicare Advantage plan for their basic health care services have the option of staying in that plan, choosing a different plan or going back to the Original Medicare program.

“It is important that people are aware of their options during the Open Enrollment period and I encourage Missouri seniors to use this opportunity in order to choose plans that best fit their needs,” Luetkemeyer said.

People can visit www.medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE or consult with a local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for help.

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