Medicare decisions can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure them out alone. Every state offers free, unbiased help through State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, known as SHIP. These programs connect you with trained volunteers who understand Medicare inside and out, and they’re not trying to sell you anything.

What SHIP Counselors Actually Do

SHIP counselors provide one-on-one help with Medicare questions, whether you’re new to the program or need to make changes during open enrollment. They’ll sit down with you to review your current coverage, compare plan options, and help you understand costs like premiums, deductibles, and copayments.

These volunteers receive extensive training on Medicare rules and updates. They can explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, help you understand when you need Medicare supplements, and walk through prescription drug coverage options. Most importantly, they work for you, not insurance companies.

SHIP counselors also help with Medicare enrollment issues, claims problems, and appeals processes. If you’ve received a confusing notice from Medicare or your insurance company, they can translate the bureaucratic language into plain English and help you understand your options.

How to Find Your Local SHIP Program

Each state runs its SHIP program differently, though all provide the same core services. Some operate through Area Agencies on Aging, while others work through state insurance departments or health departments. Many programs have multiple locations throughout each state.

The easiest way to find your local SHIP office is through the SHIP Help website or by calling Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE. You can also search online for “SHIP” plus your state name, as many programs have their own websites with contact information and appointment scheduling.

Most SHIP programs offer appointments at senior centers, libraries, community centers, and sometimes people’s homes. During open enrollment periods (October 15 through December 7), many programs extend their hours and add special enrollment events.

Services Available Beyond Basic Medicare Help

SHIP counselors assist with Medicare Savings Programs, which help pay Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs for people with limited incomes. These programs include the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program and others that can significantly reduce healthcare expenses.

Many SHIP programs help with prescription drug assistance programs and provide information about Medicare fraud protection. They can help you spot suspicious calls and report suspected fraud to appropriate authorities.

What SHIP Can Help You With

• Comparing Medicare Advantage and supplement plans
• Understanding prescription drug coverage gaps
• Enrolling in Medicare for the first time
• Appealing Medicare claim denials
• Finding programs to help pay Medicare costs
• Protecting yourself from Medicare fraud

When to Contact SHIP

The best time to use SHIP services is during Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment period from October 15 to December 7. This is when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage for the following year. SHIP counselors are busiest during this time, so schedule appointments early.

However, SHIP help is available year-round. Contact them when you first become eligible for Medicare, typically three months before you turn 65. They can help you understand your enrollment timeline and avoid late enrollment penalties.

Reach out to SHIP whenever you have major life changes that might affect your Medicare coverage. This includes moving to a different state, changes in income that might qualify you for extra help programs, or changes in health conditions that affect your medication or care needs.

What to Bring to Your SHIP Appointment

Come prepared with your Medicare card, current insurance cards, and a list of all medications you take including dosages. Bring a list of your doctors and hospitals to ensure any new plan includes them in its network.

If you’re dealing with a specific Medicare problem, bring all related paperwork including claim notices and correspondence from Medicare or your insurance company. The more information you provide, the better your counselor can help.

Understanding SHIP’s Strengths

SHIP counselors cannot enroll you in plans but can guide you through the process step by step. These programs excel at providing unbiased information because they don’t receive money from insurance companies. Unlike insurance agents who may have financial incentives, SHIP counselors focus solely on helping you find coverage that meets your needs and budget.

SHIP services are completely free, funded by federal grants and state matching funds. Be suspicious of anyone claiming to represent SHIP who asks for payment or personal financial information beyond what’s needed to help with Medicare questions.

Building an Ongoing Relationship

Many people find it helpful to establish a relationship with their local SHIP program rather than just using it once. Medicare rules change frequently, and having a familiar counselor who understands your situation can be valuable for future questions.

Consider SHIP as your first stop for Medicare questions before contacting insurance companies or making coverage changes. Their expertise and unbiased perspective can save you time and help you avoid costly mistakes.