After December 31, 2007 State Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP) will be administered directly by the Senior LinkAge Line at: 1-800-333-2433.

Any Medicare questions, supplemental insurance, Part D Prescription plan information, can all be acquired by calling the toll free number.

The Senior LinkAge Line has many trained volunteers who can work directly with the Medicare Beneficiary over the telephone or, if necessary, to a consultation in person. All information is confidential and is a free service.

Description
State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) offers counseling to eligible participants regarding Medicare and other supplemental health insurance programs. The State Health Insurance Program, formerly known as Health Insurance Counseling for Seniors (HICS), is a service of the Minnesota Board on Aging and the Area Agencies on Aging and is funded in part by Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act.

Participation
Health insurance counseling services include assistance resolving problems with Medicare bills, purchasing supplemental coverage or determining eligibility for “add on” programs such as The Prescription Drug Program.

Services do not include payment of health insurance or prescriptions, Medicare eligibility determination or advice to participants on decisions beyond explaining their options.

Eligibility
SHIP services are available to anyone on Medicare, which may include seniors as well as people with disabilities who qualify for SSI and Medicare.

How To Apply
After December 31, 2007, SHIP contact Senior LinkAge Line, 1-800-333-2433.

Cost
Health insurance counseling services are provided at no cost to eligible participants.

Volunteer Opportunities
Ongoing volunteer opportunities are available for interested individuals. Free training is provided and due to client confidentiality background checks are required. Individuals currently holding an insurance license are not eligible to volunteer.