Officials have extended the Dec. 7 deadline for Medicare enrollment for those who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy.

"[The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services] understands that many Medicare beneficiaries have been affected by this disaster and wants to ensure that all beneficiaries are able to compare their options and make enrollment choices for 2013," Arrah Tabe-Bedward, acting director for the Medicare Enrollment and Appeals Group, wrote in a Nov. 7 letter.

Individuals affected by Hurricane Sandy who are unable to make a plan selection by Dec. 7 can enroll in health and prescription drug coverage for 2013 by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the CMS says. Representatives at 1-800 MEDICARE have information available to help beneficiaries review their plan options and make a choice, and can complete an enrollment even after Dec. 7.