The Ohio Department of Insurance is utilizing Medicare experts to counsel Medicare beneficiaries about their insurance coverage as part of a pilot program at two Ohio hospitals, Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin announced.
Trained and certified Department and hospital volunteers, called SHIP Mates, at Fremont Memorial Hospital and Barberton Citizens Hospital provide Medicare beneficiaries (and their family members) with benefit and coverage information and can answer insurance-related questions during the patient’s hospital stay. The program, administered by the Department’s Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP), is the first of its kind spearheaded by a state insurance agency. It is also being considered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for possible nationwide implementation.
SHIP Mates receive extensive training that focuses on hospital procedures and Medicare benefits and claims. During a hospital stay, patients who are Medicare beneficiaries are greeted by a SHIP Mate and assisted with insurance concerns. Follow-up services and a comprehensive insurance kit are available to beneficiaries when they leave the hospital.
Since 1992, OSHIIP has saved Ohio Medicare beneficiaries millions and has counseled more than 248,000 people. The program’s 800 trained volunteers, located throughout the state, and staff educate consumers about Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance and other health insurance matters. If you are interested in becoming an OSHIIP volunteer or SHIP Mate, and have Medicare questions or want information please call 1-800-686-1578 or visit the Department’s web site at www.ohioinsurance.gov