Medicare open enrollment underway

The open enrollment period for the 2007 Medicare drug prescription benefit begins Nov. 15 and runs through Dec. 31.

Beneficiaries can switch plans or sign up for the first time. It's worth looking into changing plans, Medicare advisers say, because prices have changed.

The average monthly premium for next year's standard drug benefit will be $24. Some plans offer extra benefits at a higher cost.

Several recent surveys have found that about three-quarters of those enrolled in the drug benefit are satisfied with their coverage.

To sign up or get more information, see www.medicare.gov, or call 1-800-633-4227, a Medicare assistance line. The local Senior Insurance Assistance office, 635-4891, also can help.