The annual enrollment and change period for Medicare’s Part D Prescription drug plans begins Oct. 15^th and runs through December 7th.

To get Medicare prescription drug coverage, you must be enrolled in, or join a plan run by an insurance company or other private company approved by Medicare. Each plan can vary in cost and drugs covered.

Nantucket Cottage Hospital’s Social Services Department provides one-on-one consultations for those Medicare recipients who wish to enroll or review their current prescription plan. Due to the fact that plans can change yearly, NCH Social Services Manager Peter MacKay advises island residents to look over their plans on an annual basis to ensure it is the best option to meet their needs.

The process can be very complicated to complete, with a range of variables such as plans having different formulary coverage, different premiums, deductibles, co-pays or different participating pharmacies. Although the U.S. government recommends applying on its web site, this could present a problem for an applicant who doesn’t own a computer or who might have limited computer skills.

Beginning Oct. 17^th, the NCH Social Services Department is taking appointments at 508-825-8196. Due to the volume of calls, walk-ins will not be permitted.