SHIP as Local Help Navigating Medicare
What is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a program for Medicare beneficiaries and their families who need help understanding Medicare. Topics SHIP Counselors can assist with include eligibility, enrollment and coverage, medical bills, and Medicare supplemental and long-term care insurance. SHIP counselors provide information about benefits and help people solve problems regarding health benefit programs and related insurance products.
Who are SHIP Counselors?
SHIP Counselors are volunteers and staff who receive special training in health insurance counseling issues. They are specially trained in Medicare regulations and related insurance products. They are not connected with any insurance company, nor are they licensed to sell insurance. They provide you with unbiased, free service in an objective and confidential manner. They will also advocate on your behalf when problems arise.
What can SHIP help me with?
- Understanding your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN).
- Help with Medicare insurance enrollment, claims from doctor and hospital visits, and appeals.
- Review of Medicare supplemental insurance and comparison of policies.
- Assist Medicare beneficiaries in comparing Medicare Advantage Plans.
- Explore long term care insurance needs and policies.
How can SHIP save me money?
Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/assets may qualify for Federal and/or State programs to reduce their Medicare costs. SHIP counselors help screen and assist with applications for the Extra help/low income subsidy program and the Medicare Savings Program by reviewing the clients income and assets to determine their eligibility.
These programs may save you money on the following:
Extra Help/Low Income Subsidy
- Medicare prescription drug plan premiums.
- Medicare prescription drug deductibles and copayments.
Medicare Savings Program
- Medicare Part B premiums.
- Medicare deductibles, copayments and coinsurances.
How much does SHIP counseling cost?
There is no cost to you. SHIP counselors give their time and expertise free of charge. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which administers the Medicare program, has provided funding to train and support SHIP Counselors.
To schedule an appointment with a TCOA SHIP Counselor, call the Statewide MI Options Call Center at 1-800-803-7174 (8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday) or call TCOA at 517-887-1416 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday).
How can I become a SHIP Counselor?
If you are a person who enjoys meeting and working with people, then you are the kind of person we need. SHIP Counselors provide education, identify problems, design solutions and perform follow-up to ensure that a client has received the best possible counseling service and experience.
As a SHIP counselor, you’ll receive state-level training, get certified, and become a trusted resource for older adults and individuals with disabilities as they navigate Medicare.
*This program is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $82,981 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS or the U.S. Government.