From now until December 7, seniors can start their Medicare open enrollment process and find health care that fits their needs. One expert offers tips on what to look for and how to avoid scams this season.

More than 1 million Marylanders are enrolled in Medicare, and a number of changes have come to the program. The cap on annual out-of-pocket expenses for Part D drugs will rise from $2,100 to $2,400. The standard deductible amount will also increase to $700.

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Julia Schreiber directs the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, part of the Maryland Department of Aging. She said open enrollment is a great time to reevaluate your needs, whether they involve changes in your physical health or the plans themselves.

"There's always the possibility that there might be a more affordable plan that continues to meet your needs," Schreiber acknowledged. "Plans change year-to-year, health changes year-to-year, and there might be more affordable options."

Despite some cost increases, Medicare-negotiated prices will take effect for 15 new drugs. These include GLP-1 medications, such as the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, along with Austedo, Otezla and Xifaxan.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services estimates negotiated prices are expected to save seniors nearly $700 million across the country.

But Schreiber warns enrollees about the possibility of scammers. She advises people to beware of unprompted phone calls or those asking for your Medicare number. She added if something sounds too good to be true, it very well could be.

"Treat your Medicare number like a credit card number or your Social Security number," she stressed. "Don't hand it out to just anyone. Medicare is not going to contact you to ask for your Medicare number unless you contact them and ask for a call back."

Seniors who want to speak with an expert on their Medicare open enrollment form can call the Medicare help line at 800-633-4227.