Elder Law FAX The November 6, 2006, issue of Elder Law FAX, a free newsletter published every other Monday by the Elder Law Practice of Timothy L. Takacs. It's Enrollment Time Again: Questions and Answers About Choosing a New Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Beginning November 15 and ending December 31, people on Medicare have an opportunity to choose another prescription drug plan under the voluntary Medicare Part D program that began January 1, 2006.   Answers to a Few Common Questions Medicare Beneficiaries Are Asking Question: "What do I need to do before December 31?" Answer: Nothing. Dr. Mark McClellan, former administrator of the U. S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency that runs Medicare, says, "If you are satisfied with your current plan and want to stay with it, you don't need to take any further action."   Question: "How do I know whether I should switch drug plans?" Answer: Medicare beneficiaries should have received a copy of the 2007 Medicare & You handbook in October that includes tips on selecting a plan and an overview of options. Beneficiaries already enrolled in a Part D plan will also receive an Annual Notice of Changes that describes any changes in the benefits of their current plan.   Question: "I would like to switch drug plans. How do I do that?" Answer: Starting on November 15, you can enroll in another plan. Dr. McClellan adds, "If you want to consider other options, Medicare has enhanced the tools that make it easier to get the coverage that's right for you." Options for switching plans include: * Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder Web tool, at www.medicare.gov. CMS claims that the online plan finder is now easier to use. New features include a Monthly Cost Estimator, a personalized chart illustrating 12 months of expected drug spending for each plan.  The cost estimator helps users compare plans based on price and benefit structure, estimate how their monthly costs may vary over the course of the year, and print clear reports they can refer to later. * People without Web access can get the benefits of all of the online, personalized plan comparison tools by calling 1-800 MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). * Local State Health Insurance Assistance Program offices provide free personalized counseling * Local enrollment events will take place across the country from now through December.   Question: "Do I need to notify my current drug plan that I have switched to another plan?" Answer: No. Once you enroll in another plan, you will automatically be disenrolled from your old plan.   Question: "Can I still enroll in a drug plan even though I missed the May 15, 2006, deadline?" Answer: Yes, you can. Remember, however, that you will pay a premium of one percent a month for each month past the May 2006 deadline that you did not enroll in a plan.   Question: "I have more questions. Where can I get help?" Answer: You can call 1-800-MEDICARE or your prescription drug plan's toll-free phone number.