Some big changes are in store for Medicare during this year’s open enrollment period, and health care professionals are advising those who are eligible to seek advice before choosing a plan.

Medicare beneficiaries are encouraged to attend one of the enrollment events sponsored by the State Health Insurance Assistance Program and the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging.

The events are free, and can help seniors in choosing the plan that’s right for them.

“People should check on their Medicare plan every year, because the deductible premium and copayments may change and new plans may come about,” said Clayton Davis, a representative of the program. “The big news this year is so many drugs have dropped from coverage lists.”

The first event is going to be held Tuesday, Nov. 25 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Hank Sanders Building, room 300, at Wallace Community College Selma, located at 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway.

Events will also be held in Perry County Monday, Nov. 24 at the Uniontown Senior Center in the Community Life Building from 9 a.m. until noon, and the Perry County Health Department from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Those attending the events should bring their prescription drugs, bottles or a list of medication, social security cards, Medicare and other health or prescription cards and income information.

“This year we are noticing a dramatic additional problem,” Davis said. “Some of the plans have dropped drugs on the list of coverage. In other words, they were covered last year, but they will not be covered this year.”

Davis is strongly encouraging anyone that is seeking a plan for the first time, or those that already have a plan, to reach out and seek help during the open enrollment period.

“Just because you like your plan this year, does not mean your plan will be the best one for you next year,” Davis said.

He said that 80 percent of people that they have seen so far this year have needed to change plans.

“We’re just seeing so many changes,” Davis said. “If you’ve never done this before, it’s highly unlikely that you’ve accidently got the plan that will save you the most money.”

In addition to Medicare advice, anyone over the age of 60 can also receive free help with legal advice.

The 2014 open enrollment period began Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. All Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in whatever Medicare medical and prescription drug plan they choose for 2015.

At the events, individuals will also be able to determine if they qualify for extra help that could reduce the cost of their medical and prescription drug coverage.

Those not able to attend an event can call ATRC’s SHIP contractor, Davis & Associates, at 1-888-671-5246 to receive free help.