SHINE: Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders
What is SHINE?
The SHINE Program (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) is a state health insurance assistance program that provides free health care information, assistance and counseling to Medicare beneficiaries of all ages. The SHINE Program is administered with elder service agencies, social service agencies and Councils on Aging. The program is partially funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Who is a SHINE Counselor?
The SHINE Program helps elderly and disabled adults understand their Medicare and MassHealth benefits and other health insurance options. The SHINE Program ensures that elderly and disabled people have access to unbiased and up-to-date information about their health care options.
How Can a SHINE Counselor Help Me?
A committed volunteer who is trained and certified by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs in many areas of health insurance, including Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D; Medigap insurance, Medicare HMOs, retiree insurance plans, prescription drug programs, Medicaid, Medicare assistance programs (QMB, SLMB and QI), and other programs for people with limited resources.
How to Locate a SHINE Counselor
Medicare Part D - Pre-Enrollment Form
