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PHOENIX - Open enrollment for Medicare starts early this year, affecting more than 791,000 Arizona seniors.

Open enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. Medicare open enrollment means that the seniors in Medicare can review and make changes to their current coverage.

"It's always a good idea to review your current Medicare plan to make sure you're getting the most out of your coverage," said David Mitchell, AARP Arizona State Director. "The Medicare open enrollment period is the only time when changes can be made in your Medicare coverage during the course of the year."

Between October 15 and December 7, 2012, Medicare enrollees can switch plans, join a Medicare prescription drug plan or drop Medicare Advantage for a plan under original Medicare. Any changes made during open enrollment takes effect January 1, 2013.

"During the October 15 to December 7 open enrollment period, seniors should take a look at what are termed the four "Cs": coverage, cost, convenience and customer satisfaction when thinking about making changes in Medicare coverage," added Mitchell. "Also remember to review your options carefully because in some cases, if you drop coverage, you may not be able to get it back."

For more information about Medicare open enrollment visit: www.aarp.org/openenrollment <http://www.aarp.org/openenrollment>.

For help in comparing coverage options during open enrollment contact the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) Medicare Hotline in Arizona at (800) 432-4040.

AARP also hosts free webinars for people interested in learning more about the Medicare program and open enrollment. To find out about the free webinars visit:
www.aarp.org/healthwebinars <http://www.aarp.org/healthwebinars> .