Medicare open enrollment is underway, and North Dakota seniors are encouraged to weigh the various plans.

Advisers said it is important to consider both health care and budget needs and to read the annual notice of change, which should have already arrived in the mail. Reducing health care costs involves more than focusing on monthly premiums. Those providing guidance said it is important to compare the various plans’ copays and deductibles as well.

Kyla Sanders, program coordinator of North Dakota State University’s Aging in Community project for Western Morton County, said finding the right coverage fit can help older populations improve their quality of life.

“If we’ve got those basic needs met, it makes it a lot easier to get out and take part in a puzzle-assembly contest, or an ice cream social or some sort of educational event,” Sanders said.

To be able to do it, she stressed a senior with chronic health issues should take a deeper look at add-ons like Part D, which helps with prescription drug costs. Starting in 2025, Medicare beneficiaries will pay no more than $2,000 out of pocket for medications covered under Part D. Sanders cautioned enrollees will still have to watch out for variables, including availability of a specific medication at their local pharmacy.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said Medicare enrollees should also consider advantage plans.

“Things like dental, vision and hearing,” Randall said. “Many Medicare beneficiaries might be surprised to know that original Medicare doesn’t cover most of those things, but many Medicare Advantage plans do. I also recommend people to check for mental health coverage.”

About 34% of North Dakotans signed up for Medicare have advantage plans. If there are no support organizations in your area to help with enrollment, which runs through Saturday, Dec. 7, North Dakota’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program has information.

Meanwhile, people with employer-sponsored health plans are also entering their enrollment season. Sign-up for the state’s health insurance exchange begins Friday, Nov. 1.