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Pulling back the curtains on wage-theft enforcement in MN; Trump's latest attack is on RFK, Jr; NM LGBTQ+ equality group endorses 2024 'Rock Star' candidates; Michigan's youth justice reforms: Expanded diversion, no fees.

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says rebuilding Baltimore's Key Bridge will be challenging and expensive. An Alabama Democrat flips a state legislature seat and former Connecticut senator Joe Lieberman dies at 82.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Last-Minute Changes to a Medicare Prescription Plan? Make 'Em Now...

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Wednesday, December 5, 2012   

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The open enrollment period for Medicare "Part D" coverage ends Friday. Seniors can make changes to their drug prescription coverage through that date.

Cathy McLeer, AARP South Dakota associate state director, says it's a chance for people to improve their coverage and possibly lower their costs.

"It's really important that people simply be good consumers. Even if you are happy with the plan you have had for the previous year or last several years, it's always a good idea to review what you have, make sure that you compare that against other plans that are available, and see if maybe you can get better coverage, a better cost. Maybe there's a different plan that's more convenient."

While you may be pleased with your current plan, McLeer says it's still a good idea to double-check it because things can change.

"Plan costs can change from year to year. Plans can also change what they cover, their drug formulary. Maybe last year they covered some of your medications, but next year they won't cover those medications. Or maybe your needs have changed. Maybe your doctor has prescribed a different medication you need to take and the current plan that you have doesn't cover it."

McLeer says you can find help to navigate the sign-up process.

"You can go to
Medicare.gov, and the 'plan finder' is there online. If you're not computer-savvy, ask maybe an adult child to help you navigate that. Oftentimes, a pharmacist is more than happy to sit down and help you with a plan review if it's just too overwhelming for you."

Mcleer says the SHIINE program also has volunteers to help people find a plan that works for them.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than 141,000 senior citizens live in South Dakota, with about 8,000 baby boomers joining their ranks every day.


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