Medicare, Medicaid, State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
The maze of government benefit programs can be difficult to navigate, but it is the key to older adults receiving the benefits to which they are entitled. The Benefits Counseling program provides one‑on‑one, free counseling and assistance by a trained, certified Benefits Counselor to individuals eligible for Medicare benefits.
Benefits Counselors provide information and answer questions to ensure that individuals are receiving the benefits to which they are entitled. Benefits Counselors screen for eligibility and assist with the application process for benefit programs including the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) and Low-Income Subsidy (LIS or extra help). Unbiased information about Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare supplement or Medigap plans, Medicare Part D prescription drug plans can be provided as well as assistance with enrollment into a plan of the individual’s choice.
A recommendation involving Medicare benefits and related topics made to an eligible individual regarding a course of conduct, or how to proceed in a matter. Counseling is given either on a brief or one-time basis or on an ongoing basis. This may be given by telephone or in person.
One-on-one assistance is given to a Medicare beneficiary or their representative which helps in the preparation of documents related to Medicare-related public entitlements, or health/long term care insurance.
Advocacy on behalf of an eligible individual in protesting or complaining about a procedure; or seeking special considerations by appealing an administrative decision related to Medicare benefits.