Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)

Need Answers to Questions Like...

• I'm retiring.  What kind of health insurance do I need?
• I can't make sense of my Medicare statements and medical bills.  What do I do next?
• I've been considering long-term care insurance, but is it a a good option for me?
• Do I need a Medicare supplement policy?
• How can I help my parents with health insurance issues?

This program can help you find answers to the important questions you have on Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance, and other health insurance issues.  It's free, objective and confidential.

The State of Iowa created SHIIP in 1990 in response to the statewide need for senior health insurance information.  SHIIP provides free informational materials as well as one-to-one assistance with Medicare coverage, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance, Medicare and insurance claims and other related issues.  SHIIP does not recommend insurance companies, plans or agents; the volunteers, trained by the State of Iowa Insurance Division, answer questions and provide impartial information to help seniors make well-informed decisions.

What can SHIIP do for you?

• Understand your Medicare benefits and rights
• Assess your needs so you can make informed decisions about health insurance
• Compare and evaluate Medicare supplement and long term care insurance policies
• Organize your medical bills, Medicare statements and file claims
• Find assistance from other agencies, including Medicaid, when or if it's appropriate

Who will help me?

Volunteer counselors complete an extensive 5-day training program.  They are trained to offer unbiased help to seniors with health insurance questions.

How do I get more information?

Contact the Shenandoah Medical Center at (712) 246-1230.

Official SHIIP website:  www.shiip.state.ia.us