Mark your calendar with these important dates!

• Initial Enrollment Period
  When you first become eligible for Medicare (3 months before you turn age 65 to 3 months after the month you turn age 65).
   
• October 2008: Prepare and Compare
  Your health, finances, or coverage may have changed in the last year. Look at the cost, coverage, quality, and convenience your current Medicare health or prescription drug coverage will offer in 2009, and compare it with other available coverage options to see if there’s a better choice for you.
   
• November 15, 2008–December 31, 2008: Stay or Switch
  You can switch your Medicare health or prescription drug coverage for 2009 during this period.
   
• January 1, 2009: 2009 Coverage and Costs Begin
  New coverage begins if you made a change between November 15, 2008–December 31, 2008. New costs and coverage changes also begin if you keep your current coverage.
   
• Get a “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam within your first 6 months of having Medicare Part B.
  Ask your doctor which preventive services (like screenings, shots, and tests) you should get.

 
Note: There may be other times when you can change your Medicare health or prescription drug coverage.