State programs
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
A State Health Insurance Assistance Program is a free, state-run counseling service for people with Medicare and their families. SHIPs are federally funded through the Administration for Community Living. Counselors are not connected to any insurance company or health plan. Your SHIP may use a different local name.
Why it matters for your family
SHIP counselors help with questions such as when to enroll in Medicare, how to compare plans during the annual election period, and how to apply for programs that lower costs. They can also help with billing problems and appeals. A common mistake is to rely on a sales call or an ad when picking a plan. SHIP counselors do not sell plans. Find yours at shiphelp.org or call 877-839-2675. Demand is high during open enrollment, which starts October 15, so book early. The service is free for the person with Medicare and for family caregivers who help them.
Source: acl.gov
Related terms
- Medicare Advantage (Part C)Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is a Medicare-approved health plan sold by a private company.
- Medigap (Medicare supplement insurance)Medigap is private insurance that helps pay your share of Original Medicare costs, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
- Medicare Part DMedicare Part D is prescription drug coverage.
- Dual eligibleA dual eligible is a person who has both Medicare and Medicaid.
- Area Agency on Aging (AAA)An Area Agency on Aging is a public or private nonprofit agency that a state designates to meet the needs of older adults in a local area.
- Medicaid eligibilityMedicaid eligibility for long-term care depends on need, income, and assets.
