BELLINGHAM - People can learn about their Medicare insurance options for 2013 at two different events this week.

An informational meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, at Highgate Senior Living, 155 E. Kellogg Road.

The meeting will cover the basics of Medicare and answer questions about such topics as choices in Medicare insurance, company plans vs. Medicare Advantage or Medicare supplement plans, how to choose a new plan, best coverage for prescription drugs, and which plans doctors accept.

The program is presented by VibrantUSA, but organizers said there will be no specific plan information and no selling will take place.

Refreshments will be served, so an RSVP is appreciated; call 360-733-5111 or 866-733-5111.

The second event is a Medicare Awareness Fair on Thursday, Sept. 13, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 Halleck St.

Insurance company representatives will be there to answer questions.

At 4 p.m., Marsha Neal from VibrantUSA will talk about expected changes in Medicare next year.

The events will allow people to explore their options prior to the annual enrollment period for Medicare, which is Oct. 15 to Dec. 7.

Information also is available at medicare.gov or by calling a Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors at 360-788-6533.

Reach KIE RELYEA at kie.relyea@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2234.