Bismarck, ND - Insurance Commissioner Adam W. Hamm today announced that the State Health Insurance Counseling (SHIC) program has recently been awarded a grant for nearly $25,000 from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The "Performance Award Supplement" grant supports program strategies that will enhance and expand local educational and assistance services for Medicare beneficiaries.
Hamm said, "SHIC program staff should be proud of their work with Medicare beneficiaries across North Dakota. This grant will go a long way to provide better services for all those who depend on Medicare benefits."
The grant can be used to provide more support for SHIC volunteers and organizations, helping fund systems that enhance SHIC services such as Internet access, as well as for promotional efforts such as advertising specific to "extra help" available through Social Security. Current plans are to enhance outreach and strengthen counseling efforts statewide.
In 2006, the SHIC program has provided nearly $3 million in relief to over 12,000 Medicare beneficiaries. The SHIC program offers free and confidential help with Medicare and other health insurance. Counselors, who work through local sponsoring organizations, are trained in all aspects of senior insurance issues, such as Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare Advantage Plans, and long term care insurance.
For more information about the SHIC program or to volunteer for this program, please call 1-888-575-6611 or visit our website at:
