OLYMPIA, Wash. – Medicare’s 2019 annual open enrollment period for prescription drug plans (Part D) and Medicare Advantage plans starts Oct. 15, 2018 and runs through Dec. 7. The Washington state Insurance Commissioner’s Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program is ready to provide Medicare counseling help in your local community.

“Navigating Medicare plan options can be overwhelming,” says Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler. “Our trained SHIBA volunteer advisors in your community can answer your Medicare questions and help you search for plans online that work best for your personal situation. I encourage people to take advantage of this free, unbiased service,” said Kreidler. 

Before you make a final decision, consider these tips: