North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey is recognizing SHIIP volunteers during National Volunteer Week.
North Carolina now has more than two million Medicare beneficiaries. Last year, more than 900 SHIIP volunteers helped more than 52,000 Medicare beneficiaries with issues related to Medicare or long-term care.
"North Carolina's Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program volunteers saved senior citizens more than $30 million in 2022," Commissioner Causey said. "That's money that older North Carolinians, many of whom are on a fixed income, can use to spend as they see fit."
National Volunteer Week runs from April 16 - 22.
"Without our remarkable, selfless volunteers, SHIIP would not be able to reach out to so many Medicare beneficiaries in our state," Commissioner Causey added. "I'm very grateful for their continued service to their fellow North Carolinians."
The Seniors' Health Information Program (SHIIP) counsels Medicare beneficiaries and caregivers about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and long-term care insurance.
In addition, the NC Senior Medicare Patrol, a part of the SHIIP Division, helps to educate Medicare beneficiaries and caregivers about Medicare benefits. Through this knowledge, a person can identify, resolve and/or report billing errors, fraud, abuse, and waste to NCSMP.
Seniors and caregivers can find local SHIIP volunteers by searching the SHIIP web page at Search For a Counselor By County webpage.
Since the program's creation in 1986, North Carolina's SHIIP has become a role model for other states and has received two national awards for innovative and exemplary service.
SHIIP counselors are not licensed insurance agents, and they do not sell, endorse, or oppose any product, plan, or company. If you have questions about your specific plan, we encourage you to contact your insurance agent or the insurance company.