S.H.I.N.E.
The S.H.I.N.E. Program (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) is a state health insurance assistance program that provides free health insurance information, counseling and assistance to Massachusetts residents with Medicare and their caregivers. The SHINE Program is administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (E.O.E.A.) in partnership with elder service agencies, social service and community based agencies and Councils on Aging.
-S.H.I.N.E. counselors are volunteers who receive extensive training in many areas of health benefits. They are trained and certified by the E.O.E.A.
-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.
S.H.I.N.E. counseling is confidential and free of charge.
Typical Questions for SHINE Counselors.
- What does Medicare Pay for?
- What is "Medigap" insurance?
- Which Medigap policy is best for me? When can I buy a Medigap policy?
- Where can I get help paying for my prescription drugs?
- What is "Medicare + Choice" or a "Medicare Health Plan"?
- How do I appeal a denial of service under Medicare or a Medicare HMO?
- What do "balance billing" and "accepting assignment" mean?
- Is an HMO better for me?
- If I join a Medicare HMO, will I have to change physicians?
- Does Medicare or Medigap insurance pay for nursing home or home health care?
- Where do I go to apply for Medicaid?
- Do I qualify for Supplemental Security Income ( SSI)
- When can I sign up for Medicare Part B? Can I get help paying for the monthly premium?
To make an appointment to see Mattapoisett's Certified S.H.I.N.E. Counselor, call the Mattapoisett Council on Aging at 508.758.4110.
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