SHIIP appointment scheduling opens next week

The Senior Health Insurance Information Program, or SHIIP, opens appointment scheduling this Monday for its annual open enrollment period.

The program connects community members through volunteers with trained counselors who help navigate Medicare and Medicaid enrollment. SHIIP volunteer Steve Lucke says the program is especially valuable for those facing changes in their coverage.

The program is particularly helpful for those re-enrolling in Medicare or Medicaid, especially anyone facing changes in their medical information or prescriptions. From there, the volunteers will help schedule a meeting with a counselor, with those meetings starting in October.

Medicare and Medicaid paperwork can be extensive and complicated. SHIIP counselors are trained to work with patients through the process for no cost. Scheduling for appointments opens Monday, August 24th.

Lucke says appointment spots are expected to fill quickly, so those interested are encouraged to call early to this number: 563-652-4000