Health Insurance Counseling
Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone (SHINE) Program
The SHINE Program provides free health insurance information, counseling, and assistance to people who are eligible for Medicare and their caregivers. Certified, trained SHINE counselors, who are often volunteers, work with participants to help explore Medicare plan options and uncover ways to save money on both health insurance and prescription drug costs.
How Can a SHINE Counselor Help Me?
A SHINE counselor will help you:
- Understand your Medicare and other health insurance and drug coverage options.
- Find the right coverage for you.
- Find ways you can save money on your prescription drugs and health insurance.
- Help you apply for programs that will lower your costs.
- Provide information to help you make the best coverage selection.
Eligibility
- People who are eligible for Medicare and their caregivers.
Frank is 64 years old and will be eligible for Medicare next year when he turns 65. He's confused about all the different Medicare plans and worried about choosing the wrong coverage. Frank takes several medications for his heart condition and diabetes, and he's concerned about how much his prescriptions will cost. He tried reading about Medicare online but felt overwhelmed by all the options. A SHINE counselor met with Frank at his local senior center and explained the different Medicare parts in simple terms. The counselor helped him compare plans and found programs that would lower his prescription drug costs. Now Frank feels confident about his Medicare choices and knows he's getting the best coverage for his needs.
Find a SHINE Counselor
SHINE Counselors are available to meet in person at the following locations:
SHINE counselors are also available to meet by telephone. You can find a SHINE counselor near you by calling us at 1-800-243-4636, or by exploring the SHINE staff directory.
Interested in This Program?
Fill out our simple online form and get connected. Or, call us at 800-243-4636 and a call specialist can connect you. Call specialists are available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Coming Soon
Our online intake form is currently under development.