The event is designed to expand its outreach to senior and community centers in Honolulu.

The Medicare Rx Access Network of Hawai'i is a state chapter of the Medicare Rx Education Network, which includes 82 national organizations and provides information to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers about Medicare's Part D drug coverage.

Medicare's voluntary prescription-drug coverage went into effect Jan. 1.

Now going into its second year, the benefit will have many more plans next year that fill in the coverage gap. Also, 2007 plans will cover an average of 4,300 drugs on their preferred-drug lists (formularies), up from an average of 3,800 drugs covered in 2006.

Open enrollment for 2007 coverage runs from Nov. 15 through Dec. 31.

People already in a plan and satisfied with it don't need to do anything.

Plans have been sending letters notifying enrollees about any changes in their coverage. The Medicare Rx Access Network of Hawai'i recommends carefully reviewing the letter and re-evaluating the current plan to make sure it meets prescription needs next year.

To prepare for 2007 Medicare prescription drug coverage, the Medicare Rx Access Network of Hawai'i urges Medicare beneficiaries to:

1. Make a list of their medicines, pharmacies and annual prescription costs.

2. Check out a plan's monthly premium, whether it has a deductible, a coverage gap, a mail-order option, and if a local pharmacy is in (or still in) the plan's network.

3. If asking if certain prescription drugs are covered by a plan, also ask if these medicines are brand-name or generic; if brand name, are they preferred or non-preferred drugs; do they require pre-authorization; and, does the plan have limitations on the quantity allowed per prescription.

4. Talk to a counselor by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Allow a caregiver or family member to help you out.