What is SHIP?SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. SHIPs mission is to educate, advocate, counsel and empower people to make informed healthcare benefit decisions. SHIP is an independent program funded by Federal agencies and is not affiliated with the insurance industry.
SHIP Counseling is FREE of charge
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) provide free help to Medicare beneficiaries who have questions or issues with their health insurance. You can call a counselor or attend a workshop/presentation in your area
A Few Reminders …
Some states call their SHIP programs by a different name so we have added a topic called “Program Name.”
Many of the State SHIP websites have calendars listings workshops or ‘Medicare Monday’ events.
SHIP Counseling is free of charge.
If you are calling from out-of-state to a different State note that many of the State’s ‘Toll Free’ numbers are for in-state-use only.
If you are eligible for Medicare, you are eligible for SHIP Counseling.
Medicare health and drug plans can change each year in regard to cost, coverage and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. October 15th to December 7th is when all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs.
The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) Website – Click Here
SHIP Information by State – Updated November 2016
Note that if you find a broken link or incorrect phone number please send us an email so we can correct the information.
Alabama SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-243-5463
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The state of Alabama has SHIP coordinators and a crew of insurance counselors ready to assist you in making informed choices about your insurance. SHIP counselors are committed volunteers many of whom face the same issues you do as Medicare beneficiaries. They will provide you with information that will help you make informed choices for yourself regarding your insurance benefits. The counselors are not affiliated with any insurance companies and will not attempt to sell you insurance. All counseling records are strictly confidential. SHIP is a partnership with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Alabama Department of Senior Services and the Area Agencies on Aging.
Alaska SHIP Website:
dhss.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx
Phone: 800-478-6065 Tollfree in Alaska, 907-269-3680, TTY 800-770-8973
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) & Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
About: Alaskans are helping Alaskans get more out of their Medicare. Two programs: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) and Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is how they provide this assistance. SHIP provides one–on–one personalized counseling, education and outreach to Medicare beneficiaries and their families. This allows people to better understand and utilize their Medicare benefits. There is a large network of counselors throughout Alaska that help beneficiaries understand and navigate Medicare and other health insurance programs and plans.
Arizona SHIP Website:
des.az.gov/services/aging-and-adult/state-health-insurance-assistance-program-ship
Phone: Statewide Hotline 800-432-4040 (leave message)
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: For more information about SHIP in Arizona contact the Arizona statewide hotline 24 hours a day at 1-800-432-4040. Leave a message and a SHIP Volunteer will call you back. Arizona SHIP is also recruiting volunteers to assist with telephone calls on Hotline. Please contact the Central SHIP office at 602-542-4446 if you are interested in volunteering.
Find your local SHIP office. http://www.azdes.gov/daas/ship/contacts
Arkansas SHIP Website:
insurance.arkansas.gov/shiip.htm
Phone: 800-224-6330, 501-371-2782
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
About: What is SHIIP? The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a health insurance information program that provides free one-on-one counseling, education, and information to individuals with Medicare of all ages. We answer questions in the following areas: Medicare health coverage, Medicare supplemental insurance, long-term care insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, general Medicaid, senior referral services, Medicare prescription drug coverage, and retiree health plan coverage.
California SHIP Website:
http://www.aging.ca.gov/hicap/default.aspx
Phone: 800-434-0222
Program Name: California Department of Aging’s Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
About: The California Department of Aging’s Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) provides personalized counseling, community education and outreach events for Medicare beneficiaries. HICAP is the primary local source for accurate and objective information and assistance with Medicare benefits, prescription drug plans and health plans. California HICAP is part of a national network of State Health Insurance and Assistance Programs (SHIP). SHIP is a Federal grant program that helps States enhance and support a network of local programs, staff, and volunteers. Local programs are charged with directly helping beneficiaries to understand how to use their Medicare benefits including Prescription Drug Plan coverage, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare supplemental policies, Medicare Savings Programs, and long term care insurance. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) administers the SHIP grant programs nationally.
Colorado SHIP Website:
http://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dora/senior-healthcare-medicare
Phone: 888-696-7213, En Espanol, sin cargo 866-665-9668
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) within the Colorado Division of Insurance helps people enrolled in Medicare with questions about health insurance. Topics addressed by the program include Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap), Medicare HMOs, Medicaid assistance for people on Medicare, and long-term care insurance. The program trains counselors working through regional organizations around the state to provide: individual counseling and assistance; public education presentations about Medicare, related health insurance, and Medicare fraud; and distribution of printed materials about these health insurances. Consumers may contact their regional community program by calling toll-free.
Connecticut SHIP website:
http://www.ct.gov/agingservices/cwp/view.asp?a=2511&q=313032
Phone: 800-994-9422
Program Name: The CHOICES Program
About: Connecticut’s program for Health Insurance Assistance, Outreach, Information, Referral, Counseling and Eligibility Screening is called The Choices Program. The program is a cooperative program of the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services, the Area Agencies on Aging, and the Center for Medicare Advocacy aimed at providing information to persons age 60 and older and persons with disabilities. Call The CHOICES Program to speak with a counselor in your area.
Delaware SHIP Website:
http://www.delawareinsurance.gov/DMAB
Phone: 800-336-9500, 302-674-7364
Program Name: ELDERinfo
About: ELDERinfo provides free health insurance counseling for people with Medicare. You can call ELDERinfo at 1-800-336-9500 or 302-674-7364 to set up a free counseling session with a trained volunteer at a convenient site near you. The goal is to empower people with Medicare to better understand their options and enable them to make the best health insurance decision for themselves. ELDERinfo provides counseling and assistance on questions and problems related to Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap, long-term care insurance and other types of health insurance. There is no charge for the service. Counselors with ELDERinfo are volunteers who have completed extensive training on health insurance. Counselors provide one-on-one assistance in an objective and confidential manner. To become an ELDERinfo volunteer and help other Medicare beneficiaries understand their health insurance options, please call 1-800-336-9500 or (302) 674-7364. ELDERinfo is Delaware’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and is funded in part by a grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Florida SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-963-5337
Program Name: SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders)
About: SHINE is Florida’s state health insurance assistance program for elder Floridians. SHINE provides educational materials and free unbiased insurance counseling to Florida elders, caregivers and family members. The goal is to help elders understand and receive the health insurance coverage they need through Medicare, Medicaid, Prescription Assistance, Long-Term Care Planning & Insurance, and other health care issues. Contact SHINE if you have questions by dialing the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.
Georgia SHIP Website:
Phone: 866-552-4464
Program Name: GeorgiaCares
About: GeorgiaCares is a private-public partnership, administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS). GeorgiaCares is a volunteer-based program that provides free, unbiased and factual information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. GeorgiaCares is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. Through grants directed to states, SHIPs provide free counseling and assistance via telephone and face-to-face interactive sessions, public education presentations and programs, and media activities. Call a local GeorgiaCares office at 1-800-669-8387.
Hawaii SHIP Website:
Phone: 888-875-9229
Program Name: “HAWAII SHIP” State Health Insurance Assistance Program
About: Aloha and welcome to the Sage PLUS Program website. Sage PLUS is Hawaii’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), a program that offers one-to-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. The free counseling and assistance is provided via telephone calls, face to face meetings and public education presentations.
Idaho SHIP Website:
http://www.doi.idaho.gov/shiba
Phone: 800-247-4422
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)
About: Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) is part of a network of state health insurance assistance programs across the United States. SHIBA offers free and unbiased information, counseling, and assistance regarding senior health insurance. The SHIBA network does not sell insurance, recommend policies, agents, or specific companies. It is the goal of the group to provide up-to-date and objective information to assist you in making informed buying decisions. SHIBA has volunteers/advocates throughout Idaho who are trained on a regular basis to provide individual counseling to seniors and their caregivers. SHIBA has a strong community education and outreach component. Coordinators make educational presentations on Medicare and other senior health insurance issues to a variety of community groups. We disseminate information at hundreds of health and senior fairs throughout the State. For senior health insurance information, counseling, and assistance or to discuss volunteer opportunities, call toll free within Idaho 1-800-247-4422.
Illinois SHIP Website:
http://www.illinois.gov/aging/ship/Pages/default.aspx
Phone: 800-252-8966
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
About: Illinois’s Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is a free statewide health insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. SHIP is sponsored by the Illinois Department of Insurance. Note: The information provided in the Fact Sheets was developed to provide consumers with general information and guidance about insurance coverages and laws. It is not intended to provide regulated entities (insurance industry) with a formal, definitive description or interpretation of Department policy. For specific Department policy on any insurance issue or regulated entities such as an insurance industry, consumers should contact the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation – http://www.idfpr.com.
Indiana SHIP Website:
http://www.in.gov/idoi/2495.htm
Phone: 800-452-4800
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
About: SHIP sites are located throughout the state of Indiana. Visit a local SHIP sites in order to meet with a counselor in person, or to have questions answered by phone. Counselors are trained volunteers who can answer questions about Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement insurance, Medicaid, Long Term Care insurance, Prescription Coverage or Low Income Assistance. On the website you can search by county to locate a SHIP sites. If your county is not listed, then a site is not yet available where you live. You can select another county near you, or you can call the central office at 1-800-452-4800 for assistance.
Iowa SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-351-4664, TTY 800-735-2942
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
About: Choosing Medicare and related health care coverage can be challenging. That’s why SHIIP offers confidential, one-on-one counseling throughout Iowa from trained volunteers who have been in your shoes. The counseling is free. Note that the website lists SHIIP locations by county. Locate a site near you and then call to set up an appointment.
Kansas SHIP Website:
http://www.kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick
Phone: 800-860-5260
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Counseling For Kansas (SHICK)
About: Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) is a free program offering older Kansans an opportunity to talk with trained, community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare and other insurance issues. SHICK provides many resources that will help with the Medicare maze. SHICK volunteers are trained and know about the programs. The role of the volunteer counselor is to help people stay informed on changing conditions in health care insurance and to cut through the confusion. The volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Long-Term Care and other health insurance subjects that concern older Kansans. The SHICK volunteer counselors do not work for any insurance company. The goal is to educate and assist the public to make informed decisions on what’s best for them.
Kentucky SHIP Website:
http://www.chfs.ky.gov/dail/ship.htm
Phone: 877-293-7447
Program Name: Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides information, counseling and assistance to seniors and disabled individuals, their family members and caregivers. This service is provided at no charge by local, well-trained counselors. The program seeks to educate the general public and Medicare beneficiaries so they are better able to make informed decisions about their health care. SHIP does not sell anything. SHIP also works in partnership with the Kentucky Medicare Partners to provide outreach and education to people with Medicare.
Louisiana SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-259-5300, 225-342-5301
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
About: To see that the senior citizens of Louisiana do not fall prey to complicated policies, misleading advertisements, or unscrupulous agents or insurance companies. SHIIP is a program funded by a grant from the Health Care Financing Administration, implemented April 1993 to provide counseling and assistance to seniors who need health insurance information. SHIIP volunteer counselors provide counseling, free of charge, on a variety of topics regarding health insurance, including: Supplemental and Long Term Care Insurance Policy Comparison, Assistance with Claims, Medicare-contracted Health Maintenance Organizations, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Insurance and Medicare Appeals Process. SHIIP Counselors offer advisory information only and do not make decisions for clients. All information shared with a counselor is kept strictly confidential. The counselor will at no time attempt to sell the client anything. Information is given to clients to assist them in making informed decisions. SHIIP counselors never charge for this service. There is also a SHIP counseling online tool.
Maine SHIP Website:
http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/community-support/ship.html
Phone: 877-353-3771, TTY 800-750-5353, Local/Out of State 800-262-2232
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
About: People in Maine who have Medicare insurance can get free health insurance counseling through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Call the Legal Services for the Elderly Hotline or your local Area Agency on Aging. Specially trained staff will answer your questions about Medicare, Medicare drug discounts, supplemental insurance, MaineCare, long-term care and other health insurance.
Maryland SHIP Website:
http://www.aging.maryland.gov/Pages/StateHealthInsuranceProgram.aspx
Phone: 410-767-1100
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) meets one of the most universal needs of Medicare beneficiaries , including those under 65 years of age. SHIP helps seniors understand their health insurance benefits, bills and rights. The Maryland SHIP program provides trained staff and volunteer counselors in all 24 counties. Counselors provide in-person and telephone assistance in the following general areas for Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Program, Medicare supplements (Medigap Plans), Assistance for disabled Medicare beneficiaries (under age 65), Medicare Advantage Plans (HMOs, preferred provider organizations), Long Term Care Insurance, Medical Assistance programs, Assistance for low-income beneficiaries and other topics important to seniors. The Maryland Department of Aging receives funding for this program from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the State of Maryland and local governments. SHIP counseling services are confidential and free of charge.
Massachusetts SHIP Website:
Phone: 1-800-243-4636 (option #3)
Program Name: Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone (SHINE)
About: The SHINE Program (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) is a state health insurance assistance program that provides free health insurance information, counseling and assistance to Massachusetts residents with Medicare and their caregivers. The SHINE Program is administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs in partnership with elder service agencies, social service and community based agencies and Councils on Aging. The program is partially funded by the federal agency Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Michigan SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-803-7174
Program Name: Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP)
About: Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) provides free health benefit counseling services to those aged 65 and older, those who are Medicare beneficiaries due to disability, and their families. MMAPs provide timely, objective and accurate information and support to Michigan beneficiaries so that they can make informed decisions about their health care. Information and assistance is provided in the areas of Medicare, Medicare+Choice (managed care options), Medigap insurance, and Medicaid long term care insurance. Counselors at local agencies provide information about benefits, comparative information about insurance products and managed care plans, and assistance with claims, denials of services and other insurance related problems. To obtain the services of a MMAP counselor, call toll-free 1-800-803-7174. This number will automatically route the caller to the MMAP nearest them where assistance can be provieded over the phone or an appointment can be made.
Minnesota SHIP Website:
http://mnaging.org/Advisor/InsFinBenefits/Health Insurance Counseling
Phone: 800-333-2433
Program Name: The Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP)
About: Choices for health insurance are many, and the issues can often be confusing. That is why the Minnesota Board on Aging certifies a team of volunteers to help seniors make informed choices about insurance. The service is called the Minnesota State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). It is a network of local programs that provide information, counseling and assistance to all Medicare eligible persons across the state. SHIP was formed in Minnesota in 1993, as a result of an initiative of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Mississippi SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-948-3090, 601-359-4929
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a counseling program from the Mississippi Department of Human Services. The program is designed to answer the elderly’s questions about health insurance. Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance or other coverage, volunteers are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork and help with claims and filing appeals.
Missouri SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-390-3330, 573-817-8320
Program Name: Community Leaders Assisting the Insured of Missouri (CLAIM)
About: CLAIM stands for “Community Leaders Assisting the Insured of Missouri.” CLAIM has been the official State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Missouri since 1993. CLAIM is a nonprofit providing free, unbiased information about Medicare to Missourians. The goal is to provide local counselors to help you get the most from your Medicare benefits. CLAIM also hosts “Welcome” to Medicare Events.
Montana SHIP Website:
dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/aging/SHIP/ship
Phone: 800-551-3191
Program Name: Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free health-benefits counseling and advocacy service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. The mission is to educate, advocate FOR, counsel and empower people to make informed benefit decisions. The Montana SHIP is an independent, objective, and confidential assistance program funded by Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and is not affiliated with the insurance industry. This program is based and operated through the Montana Area Agencies on Aging.
Nebraska SHIP Website:
http://www.doi.nebraska.gov/shiip
Phone: 800-234-7119, TTY 800-833-7352
Program Name: The Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
About: Medicare eligibility can be quite complex and confusing. A wrong turn can delay your benefits or even prevent your enrollment to certain parts of Medicare. The Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is available as a free counseling service to walk you through the process. Visit the Nebraska SHIIP website and explore the online resources. Upcoming SHIIP events are also posted online.
Nevada SHIP Website:
adsd.nv.gov/Programs/Seniors/SHIP/SHIP_Prog
Phone: 800-307-4444, Carson City 775-687-4210
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: SHIP provides information, counseling and assistance to Medicare Beneficiaries in Nevada involving a statewide network of volunteers. SHIP Volunteers offer FREE one-on-one assistance and counseling with respect to many problems seniors encounter regarding Medicare, supplemental health insurance and long-term care options.
New Hampshire SHIP Website:
Phone: 866-634-9412
Program Name: ServiceLink Resource Centers
About: ServiceLink Resource Centers have trained Medicare specialists and Medicare Learning Centers and these Resource Centers are located in every County of the State of New Hampshire. The Medicare Learning Centers provide free and confidential health insurance counseling with a certified Medicare specialist or volunteer and assistance in applying for cost savings programs to reduce your Medicare expenses.
New Jersey SHIP Website:
http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/services/ship
Phone: 800-792-8820
Program Name: State Health Improvement Plan(SHIP)
About: The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with, or questions about their health insurance. SHIP is a statewide program sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services with major funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Volunteer counselors do not provide legal advice, sell, recommend, endorse any specific insurance product, agent, insurance company, Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) or Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plan. They provide information and assistance so that you can make your own decisions. Counseling is free of charge.
New Mexico SHIP Website:
http://www.nmaging.state.nm.us
Phone: 800-432-2080
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. Coordinators provide benefits counseling on the Medicare, Medicare prescription drug program, Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare and Veterans benefits. Information and related Senior Medicare Patrol billing questions and appeals. NM SHIP ensures that older New Mexicans receive accurate, unbiased information about health care options and other entitlements. It does not sell, endorse or recommend any specific insurance or other health plans
New York SHIP Website:
http://www.aging.ny.gov/HealthBenefits/Index.cfm
Program Name: Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP)
About: HIICAP stands for Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program. It is the New York State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). It receives federal funds from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to operate a statewide network of local programs. HIICAP educates the public about Medicare, Medicaid, managed care, EPIC, and other health insurance options and issues. HIICAP assists Medicare beneficiaries to access needed health care and to apply for programs such as the Medicare Savings Programs
North Carolina SHIP Website:
http://www.ncdoi.com/SHIIP/Default.aspx
Phone: 855-408-1212
Program Name:
About: The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) counsels Medicare beneficiaries and caregivers about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and long-term care insurance. The counselors on our toll-free line offer free and unbiased information regarding Medicare health care products. We also help people recognize and prevent Medicare billing errors and possible fraud and abuse through our NC SMP Program.
North Dakota SHIP Website:
Phone: 888-575-6611, 701-328-2440
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIC)
About: The State Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIC) of North Dakota offers free help with Medicare and other health insurance. Trained counselors who work through local sponsoring organizations can help answer your questions. SHIC counselors have no connection with any insurance company or product. To schedule an appointment or to locate the SHIC program sponsor nearest you, please contact us.
Ohio SHIP Website:
http://www.insurance.ohio.gov/Consumer/Pages/ConsumerTab2.aspx
Phone: 800-686-1578
Program Name: Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP)
About: Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) is funded in part by state funds and by a grant from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). The program was founded in 1992 to provide Medicare beneficiaries with free, objective health insurance information and one-on-one counseling. OSHIIP’s speaker’s bureau, hotline experts and trained volunteers educate consumers about Medicare, Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D), Medicare Advantage options, Medicaid, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance and other health insurance matters.
Oklahoma SHIP Website:
http://www.ok.gov/oid/Consumers/Information_for_Seniors/SHIP.html
Phone: 800-763-2828
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP)
About: The Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP) is a non-profit organization helping to inform the public about Medicare and other senior health insurance issues. This division provides accurate and objective counseling, assistance, and advocacy relating to Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, long-term care, and other related health coverage plans for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives, or persons soon to be eligible for Medicare.
Oregon SHIP Website:
http://www.oregon.gov/dcbs/insurance/SHIBA/Pages/shiba.aspx
Phone: 800-722-4134 Message Line
Program Name: Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA)
About: Medicare is for people age 65 and older or under 65 and disabled. The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program provides free counseling to people with Medicare and those who assist them. Call our toll-free SHIBA Helpline at 1-800-722-4134 to receive one-on-one counseling and assistance from state office staff or trained SHIBA volunteers in your area. We can help you select a Medicare prescription drug plan, compare Medicare Advantage Plans, compare Medicare Supplement Plans, and help you apply for Medicare Savings Programs, including Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug coverage. We also can help you review your Medical bills, and file appeals or complaints.
Pennsylvania SHIP Website:
http://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/insurance/Pages/default.aspx
Phone: 800-783-7067
Program Name: Apprise Health Insurance Counseling Program
About: Apprise Health Insurance Counseling Program is a free health insurance counseling program designed to help older Pennsylvanians with Medicare. Counselors are specially trained volunteers who can answer your questions about Medicare and provide you with objective, easy-to-understand information about Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Medicaid, and Long-Term Care Insurance. All services are free and confidential. You can also find Counseling events around the State.
Rhode Island SHIP
http://www.dea.ri.gov/insurance
Phone: 401-462-4000, TTY 401-462-0740
Program Name: Rhode Island Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
About: The Rhode Island Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is part of a national partnership to help consumers make informed health care choices. Funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, SHIP volunteers provide one-to-one counseling to seniors, adults with disabilities, families and caregivers. The program is designed to help seniors and adults with disabilities understand health care cost and coverage and deal with issues regarding health care. Volunteer SHIP counselors can discuss Medicare, Medicare drug plans, supplemental insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, over insurance, free and reduced-cost medical care programs, federal retiree health insurance, Veterans benefits and long-term care insurance and other programs.
South Carolina SHIP Website:
aging.sc.gov/contact/Pages/SHIPContactInformation.aspx
Phone: 800-868-9095, 803-734-9900
Phone: Find I-CARE phone numbers by South Carolina Area Agency on Aging Region – Click Here
Program Name: Insurance Counseling Assistance and Referrals for Elders program (I-CARE)
About: Medicare is insurance for the elderly and disabled. There are several parts to Medicare and many choices to be made by the consumer. To assist in these decisions, the State of South Carolina and the Federal government have put together a program call the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) or alternatly known as the Insurance Counseling Assistance and Referrals for Elders program (I-CARE). What it means to consumers is there are people throughout the state who can provide health insurance counseling for Medicare, Medicare Supplement, Medicare Savings program, Medicare Advantage Plans and Senior Medicare Fraud programs.
South Dakota SHIP Website:
Phone: Eastern South Dakota: 800-536-8197, 605-333-3314; Central South Dakota: 877-331-4834, 605-224-3212; Western South Dakota: 877-286-9072 or 605-342-8635
Program Name: Senior Health Information & Insurance Education (SHIINE)
About: SHIINE can help you understand medicare and your benefits. The mission of SHIINE is to advocate for, inform, educate and assist consumers on Medicare and related health information and insurance issues so consumers can make timely, informed decisions and access resources to meet their needs. SHIINE has staff and trained volunteer counselors statewide who can assist people, free of charge, who have problems or questions regarding their Medicare benefits. Website has calendar of events related to understanding Medicare.
Tennessee SHIP Website:
http://www.tn.gov/aging/topic/ship
Phone: 877-801-0044
Program Name: The Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program is a statewide program that provides free and objective counseling and assistance to persons with questions or problems regarding Medicare and other related health insurances. In Tennessee, SHIP operates through the state’s nine Area Agencies on Aging & Disability (AAADs). These agencies offer a variety of services besides SHIP, all aimed at helping persons who are elderly and/or have disabilities to live better lives. Get Your Medicare Questions Answered by Tennessee’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
Texas SHIP Website:
http://www.tdi.texas.gov/consumer/hicap
Phone: 800-252-9240
Program Name: Health Information Counseling & Advocacy Program of Texas (HICAP)
About: HICAP´s mission is to establish and maintain a comprehensive, coordinated and statewide system of health insurance counseling for older and disabled Texans. The Texas Department of Insurance partners with the Texas Legal Services Center and the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services to provide information about both public benefits and private health insurance. All HICAP programs in Texas are committed to working with seniors, particularly in the area of benefits counseling. HICAP staff and volunteers, located in 28 Area Agency on Aging offices, are trained in all aspects of public and private benefits. Benefits counselors are not allowed to recommend any policy or plan. Their role is to provide factual, unbiased information and assistance and to act as advocates when needed.
Utah SHIP Website:
daas.utah.gov/seniors
Phone: 800-541-7735
Program Name: Medicare/Medigap/Med Advantage
About: Utah provides online resources covering the various options in Medicare, Medigap and Med Advantage plans that seniors can choose. Resources include publications from the Centers of Medicare Medicaid Services (CMS) and state resources.
Vermont SHIP Website:
Phone: 800-642-5119
Program Name: The Vermont State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
About: The website is sponsored by The Vermont State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). This program is designed to provide help with questions or concerns about Medicare related issues to those 65 and over or with disabilities. Trained counselors and volunteers are located in the Area Agencies on Aging. We are here to help you with any questions or problems you have with Medicare or other health insurance, including the Vermont State programs.
Virginia SHIP Website:
For the State of Virginia – http://www.vda.virginia.gov/vicap2.asp
Phone: 800-552-3402
Program Name: Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program – VICAP
Washington SHIP Website:
http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/shiba
Phone: 800-562-6900
Program Name: Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)
About: We understand health care coverage and provide free, unbiased health care coverage counseling to people of ALL ages. We can help you understand your health care coverage options and rights, find affordable health care coverage and evaluate and compare health insurance plans. Our volunteers are part of the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) HelpLine.
Washington D.C. SHIP
Website: http://www.elderweb.com/organization/washington-dc-health-insurance-counseling-project-hicap
Phone: 202-994-6272, TTY 202-973-1079
Program Name: Health Insurance Counseling Project (HICP)
About: For District of Columbia residents with Medicare, or who are 60 years or older, HICP provides a telephone help line where consumers can leave confidential messages. Calls returned during business hour. HICP also offer community education programs to help you understand Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance. Please call us to set an appointment to have sessions held at your schools, churches, senior centers, government agencies, and community groups
West Virginia SHIP Website:
http://www.wvship.org/AboutWVSHIP/tabid/132/Default.aspx
Phone: 877-987-4463, 304-558-3317
Program Name: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP)
About: West Virginia’s Medicare information, counseling, and assistance program began in 1992. It was part of a nationwide initiative resulting from the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to establish Medicare counseling in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. For many years each program operated under a different name; in 2004, however, the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) (the funding agency) established SHIPs—State Health Insurance Assistance Programs in order to make the country’s programs immediately recognizable and the names uniform. Website has zip code searchable database for locating a counselor.
Wisconsin SHIP Website:
longtermcare.wi.gov
Phone: 800-242-1060
Program Name: The Medigap Helpline
About: The Medigap Helpline will help you make wise insurance decisions. This is a state-wide toll-free number provided by the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care. It has no connection with any insurance company. Call with questions about MEDIGAP Insurance and Counselors at the Medigap Helpline can help you evaluate your Medicare supplemental insurance and clarify many other related, and sometimes confusing, issues.
Wyoming SHIP Website:
http://www.wyomingseniors.com/services/wyoming-state-health-insurance-information-program
Phone: 800-856-4398
Program Name: Wyoming State Health Insurance Information Program (WSHIIP)
About: Wyoming State Health Insurance Information Program (WSHIIP) is a federally mandated program. It was set up to help seniors and others on Medicare understand their rights and answer their questions. We have over eighty volunteers in almost every county who will counsel beneficiaries and help solve problems, confidentiality, and it is free of cost. Trained counselors promote consumer understanding of Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare supplement and long-term care insurance.
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