Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield is sending its Medicare experts to Coos Bay to talk with people about Medicare options.

The company has scheduled two free seminars on the topic at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the South Umpqua Room of the Red Lion Hotel.

The annual election period for Medicare runs from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, offering Medicare participants the chance to sign up for the first time, or switch to a new plan. Regence will conduct a series of free seminars throughout the state, where Medicare beneficiaries can learn more, have their questions answered and receive assistance with enrollment.

The company has added Regence MedAdvantage + Rx Core, which offers medical and prescription drug benefits at a lower monthly premium. MedAdvantage is a preferred provider option that Regence offers as part of the federal Medicare Advantage program. It has a large PPO network with assured access, lower out-of-pocket costs, a dental benefit and routine vision.

Registration is required. For more information and to register, call (888) REGENCE, or go to http://www.or.regence.com. TTY users may call (800) 382-1003.