Enrolling in Medicare or making changes to your plan can be complicated. The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides free Medicare counseling from highly trained volunteers.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SHIIP counselors are currently meeting with clients over the phone, by email and via the U.S. mail. You may still ask all of your questions and get accurate information from a counselor who takes the time to listen to your particular situation.
Your private information is guarded. Because SHIIP counselors are not employed by private insurance companies, they are able to help you look at all the options from any insurance provider. Retirees often report that after meeting with a SHIIP counselor, they select a different plan and see big savings in their premiums and/or co-pays.
The SHIIP program is always looking for new volunteers. If you are interested in helping or want to learn more, go to the SHIIP website.
SHIIP counselors are typically of retirement age, and some have a background in finance or insurance, but that isn’t required. Good SHIIP counselors can be trusted with private information, can work with a variety of people and have good computer skills, including internet.
Ann Cochran is the health navigation coordinator for the Dallas County Public Health Department.
