Washington, DC (NAPSI) - For millions of Americans over 65, Fall marks an annual opportunity to access high-quality prescription drug coverage. The Medicare Part D open enrollment period allows Medicare-eligible seniors to sign up for a new prescription drug plan or switch out an existing one.

A new national survey by Medicare Today and KRC Research shows that 90 percent of seniors are satisfied with their Part D coverage. Six in 10 say they would not be able to fill their prescriptions in the absence of the program.

Despite seniors’ overwhelming satisfaction with the program, the survey found that a significant percentage of seniors are unaware of the Medicare Plan Finder tool that allows for comparing different plans.

If you’re currently on Part D or eligible for the program, where can you go to learn more?

To enroll through a Medicare counselor, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) during the official open enrollment period (October 15 to December 7). Additionally, you can compare plans and enroll online at www.Medicare.gov.

Before shopping for a plan, it is important to have on hand:

• Your list of the prescription drugs

• Medicare ID card

• The name and phone number of your preferred pharmacy.

Part D was designed with senior choice in mind, so open enrollment is the perfect time to exercise the flexibility provided through the program. In doing so, you will be helping to assume ownership of your long-term health and well-being.