SALEM — Oregonians are reminded that free assistance is available during open enrollment for Medicare, which runs Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.

People can obtain information about Medicare options and benefits, and make changes or select their health plan or prescription drug plan, pick a Medicare Advantage plan and receive enrollment guidance through the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program. According to a press release from the Oregon Department of Human Services, the office of Aging and People with Disabilities wants people to know that there are some key changes in Medicare for 2025.

SHIBA counselors can inform people about a discount program that addresses the coverage gap, as well as information about the maximum pay for covered medications, expanded coverage for family caregiver services and increased access to mental health services. Jane-ellen Weidanz, SHIBA deputy director of policy, encourages people to take advantage of the free assistance that is available.

“Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” she said.

In addition, SHIBA counselors can alert people of Medicare scams or fraud. The ultimate goal of scammers is to gain the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit fraud.

For help in navigating the Medicare process, call the SHIBA program at 800-722-4134 or visit www.SHIBA.Oregon.gov.