If you’re like most, there’s not much more on your mind right now than the election of President-elect Barack Obama. But if you’re enrolled in Medicare, or you will be eligible for Medicare in 2009, there’s something bigger to think about – open enrollment.

Beginning Saturday, November 15, open enrollment for Medicare will start for the next year. The open enrollment time frame will go through December 31 of this year.

Within this time frame, you will be guaranteed access to any Medicare plan, which includes Medicare Advantage, Select and Part D (prescription drug coverage), as well as original plans. Additionally, you can switch or change your current coverage.

This open enrollment is also when health insurance companies and the federal government will offer the best rates for next year.

So if you, your parents, or grandparents are looking to switch Medicare plans or will be enrolling in Medicare for the first time, the Medicare open enrollment period is the best time to do it. For more information, visit Medicare.gov.