Ohio helps during open enrollment

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Ohioans with Medicare coverage have until the end of this week to shop for a new prescription drug insurance plan.

Ohio Department of Insurance officials are reminding Medicare beneficiaries that open enrollment ends on Friday. Any changes made to Medicare coverage will take effect Jan. 1.

The window is the only chance most beneficiaries have each year to find coverage or switch plans the government's program for seniors and the disabled.

The department's Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program is offering help to Medicare recipients on any changes. The program takes calls on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-686-1578.

The insurance department says the program has helped consumers realize a savings of more than $3.5 million during open enrollment this year.

Online:

• http://www.insurance.ohio.gov
• http://www.medicare.gov