'Tis the season for Medicare beneficiaries to review their prescription drug plans.

"If you you're happy with the plan you have, then there's no need to change anything," U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt said during a recent Utah visit.

If Utah is like the rest of the country, about 15 percent of the state's 257,000 beneficiaries are unhappy with their current prescription plan, Leavitt said. "There are plans that are less expensive for 97 percent of all of those people enrolled, so the chances are very good that if your plan has gone up, you can find one that fits your needs better."

Leavitt cautioned there are major bumps in premiums and changes in coverage coming soon. He suggested those wanting to change should do so soon as possible to avoid any processing problems at the pharmacy and to beat the Dec. 31 deadline.

The secretary said the holidays are a perfect time for the adult children of Medicare recipients to take advantage of family gatherings and the giving spirit by asking a parent, aunt, uncle, if they've checked into their prescription drug benefit. Look at the premium rate for each plan, ask questions and review whether the current drug plan is the best deal.

There are 51 prescription drug plans to choose from in the state, with 26 plans offering enhanced benefits, 27 with no deductible and one charging a premium less than $25.

Find more information or a live person to help by either visiting www.medicare.gov or by calling 800-633-4227 or TTY 877-486-2048. Around-the-clock help is available from trained Medicare representatives.

Medicare experts at Utah's Health Insurance Information Program are at 1-800-541-7735.

Low-income subsidies are also available to help pay for prescription drugs.

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E-mail: jthalman@desnews.com