It's time to change Medicare Part D

Seniors who may have changed their medications over the past year or are unsatisfied with their current Medicare Prescription Drugs Benefit (Part D) should plan to consider other options, said U.S. Representative Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas). Persons are encouraged to check to see if a new one will better suit their medical needs. The "open season" for Medicare Part D opened Nov. 15 and runs through Dec. 31.

Medicare's Part D program helps to lower the cost of prescription drugs for millions of Americans. Part D enrollees are encouraged to review their current plan, compare it with a list of their medications and see if it is still fits their needs.

The prescription drug benefit program under Medicare went into effect Jan. 1, 2006. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Medicare Part D has saved seniors an average of $1,200 annually on prescription medication since being enacted into law.

Seniors who would like additional information on changing their prescription drug plans should contact Medicare at (800) MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov.