SHIIP Program to Begin at BCHC Now Accepting Appointments for Medicare Counseling
Understanding Medicare and choosing the right health insurance coverage can be confusing. Buchanan County residents now have access to free, confidential and unbiased Medicare counseling services through Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC), the local sponsor site for the Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP).
SHIIP is a service of the Iowa Insurance Division that provides objective information and one-on-one assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, individuals becoming eligible for Medicare, family members and caregivers. Trained and certified SHIIP counselors can help individuals better understand their Medicare benefits and coverage options and navigate questions related to Medicare and other health insurance.
SHIIP counselors can assist with a variety of Medicare-related questions and situations, including:
- Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C and D
- Comparing Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and prescription drug plan options
- Reviewing current Medicare coverage and plan changes
- Understanding enrollment periods and when to sign up for Medicare
- Exploring programs that may help with Medicare-related costs
- Helping individuals and families navigate Medicare questions and concerns
SHIIP counselors do not sell or promote insurance companies, policies or agents. The service is designed to provide objective information so individuals can make decisions based on their own needs and circumstances.
Buchanan County SHIIP Counselor Teresa Nennig is looking forward to serving the community in this new capacity.
“As a retired educator, I have a willingness to serve people and help them navigate Medicare,” said Nennig. “Whether you are approaching Medicare eligibility, helping a parent or loved one, or simply have questions about your current coverage, SHIIP is here to help.”
Beginning September 20, Nennig will begin meeting with individuals regularly at BCHC. Individuals who are new to Medicare can begin scheduling appointments approximately three months before their 65th birthday. Open enrollment appointments will not be available until October 1st.
Counseling appointments are available through BCHC. To schedule an appointment or learn more about SHIIP services in Buchanan County, call 319-332-0083.
SHIIP services are provided free of charge and are confidential and unbiased. BCHC is the designated SHIIP/SMP sponsor site for Buchanan County and is listed by the Iowa SHIIP and SMP program as a local resource for residents seeking Medicare counseling.
For more information about Iowa SHIIP and Medicare resources, visit Iowa SHIIP and SMP online.