Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
Great River Health volunteers are trained to help Iowans enroll
in or make changes to their Medicare plans. The state’s Senior Health
Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a free, confidential service
that provides unbiased information to help people make decisions about
Medicare and other health coverage. People should enroll in Medicare as
soon as they turn 65. They can make changes to their drug plan during
the annual enrollment period from October 15 through December 7.
Appointments are available weekdays in the Volunteer Services office on
the lower level of Eastman Plaza, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays
at Great River Clinic in Wapello. The telephone number is (319) 768-3342.
SHIIP counselors help clients:
- Enroll in and understand Medicare
- Enroll in and understand Medicare supplements, including Part D prescription
drug coverage
- Sign up for Social Security benefits
- Qualify for free and reduced drug plans from pharmaceutical companies
- Qualify for low-income assistance from Medicare and Medicaid
In 2015, Great River Health’ SHIIP volunteers helped 1,024
people, who saved $254,000 in Medicare-related expenses. Most of the savings
were related to choosing the right prescription drug plan.