Insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers in Champaign County. SHIP counselors:

-- Answer questions about Medicare, Medicare Supplement insurance, long-term care insurance, Medicare managed care plans (HMO, PPO & PFFS) and other health insurance

-- Answer questions regarding prescription drug coverage through Medicare D and other sources

-- Assist in filing Medicare and Medicare Supplement claims

-- Analyze Medicare Supplement and long-term care insurance policies

-- Appeal claim denials

-- Answer questions about Extra Help, a federal program to assist low-income seniors with the costs associated with Medicare D.

Counselors will also assist with the completion of Extra Help applications.