SHINE
The SHINE Program, developed, funded and managed by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, is administered through local Councils on Aging to provide a network of volunteer health benefit counselors to ensure that Massachusetts elders have access to accurate information regarding health insurance options.
SHINE counselors are volunteers who receive extensive training in many areas of health benefits.~ They are trained and certified by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs.~ Counselors can assist elders in understanding their health insurance needs, help elders process health benefits claims, inform elders of their rights under Medicare, review present coverage to prevent elders from paying for unnecessary or duplicate coverage, and make referrals to various agencies when appropriate.
Many of us have problems reading and completely understanding the materials in the "Medicare & You 2007" handbook sent to every senior household each year in October.
Several Charitable Foundations have lent their support in funding a new WEB SITE to help each of us with questions about Medicare Services.~ The site for those with computers is: WWW.medicarerights.org/help.html
For seniors without home based computers, there are multiple computer stations available at the Mattapoisett Free Public Library, temporarily located at the Center School. For residents of other locations, check with your Council on Aging.
SHINE counseling is confidential and free of charge. To make an appointment to see Robert Walter- or Beverly Butler- Mattapoisett Certified SHINE Counselors, call the Mattapoisett Council on Aging at 508.758.4110.
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