SHIP Volunteer Opportunities

Be a source of information for people with Medicare questions. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, is a state-based program that offers local one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. Through Administration for Community Living (ACL) and state funded grants, SHIP's provide free counseling and assistance via telephone and face-to-face interactive sessions, public education presentations and programs, and media activities. Trained counselors offer information, counseling and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries on a wide range of Medicare, Medicaid, and Medigap matters. There are multiple volunteer opportunities with SHIP, read more about becoming a part of the SHIP BEAM team.

General Requirements for SHIP Counselors                                                                               

In addition to the general requirements for all ADSD Volunteers, SHIP Volunteers must also:

• Offer Medicare beneficiaries unbiased information and assistance with their health insurance and prescription drug plan choices.
• Ability to independently assist with problems, questions, the appeal and grievance processes, and make referrals when appropriate.
• Communicate effectively one-on-one and by telephone.
• Must have access to a computer and be computer literate.

• Complete required data entry, i.e. SHIP talk.
• Navigate the Plan Finder tool to assist and enroll beneficiaries in prescription drug plans.
• Show compassion and understanding when working with senior beneficiaries, people living with disabilities and special needs beneficiaries.
• Successfully complete Medicare SHIP Counselor Training, CMS Certification and re-certify annually.
• One year commitment with a minimum of eight hours a month.

Are you a current or past SHIP volunteer? We would like to hear about your experience! Email us your comments or suggestions!