State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Volunteer Counselors
The Region 9 SHIP team are certified counselors who provide services in the twelve-county area. The role of a SHIP counselor is to provide accurate benefit information so the Medicare beneficiary can make an informed decision best suited for their individual needs. Because SHIP counselors are not affiliated with any insurance companies they can provide unbiased information to seniors and persons with disabilities who are trying to make decisions about their healthcare options.
Volunteer counselors are trained to assist and provide information on problems or questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Supplemental Insurance (also known as Medigap), Medicare Part D, Long-Term Care Insurance, and related issues. Counselors can help break down the complexities of Medicare into understandable options and assist with enrollments, coverage disputes, and Medicare appeals, as well as reporting suspected Medicare fraud and abuse cases to the appropriate authorities.
Speakers are available for group presentations on various Medicare topics.