SHIIP
By M. René Tarquinio, LBSW Case Manager/SHIIP Co-Coordinator The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) counsels Medicare beneficiaries and caregivers about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and long-term care insurance. Volunteer counselors are available at BSRI senior centers and appointments can be made by calling (910) 754-2300. The BSRI SHIIP program also provides Introduction to Medicare classes, which helps beneficiaries who are new to Medicare navigate the Medicare maze. Even if you already enrolled in Medicare, you are welcome to attend a class as it may help answer some questions
that you have. Along with a PowerPoint, the classes provide interactive instruction on the Medicare and Department of Insurance websites. The following classes have been scheduled for the months of September and October:
September 6 – Brunswick Center at Calabash from 9-11am. Please sign up at the Calabash Center. Space is limited!
September 19 – Introduction to Medicare, Brunswick Community College main campus in Supply from 1-3 p.m. Please call Lisa Schultz (910) 755-7378 to register.
October 3 – Introduction to
Medicare, Brunswick Community College, Leland Campus from 1-3 p.m. Please call Lisa Schultz at (910) 755-7378 to register. On September 26, a Medicare Event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ocean Isle Beach Town Hall located at 3 W. 3rd Street, Ocean Isle Beach. Speakers from the Area Agency on Aging, Brunswick County DSS, BSRI SHIIP, and Prescription Assistance Program will be presenting. Refreshments will be served. Please call René Tarquinio at (910)7546224 for more information. Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15-December 7, so classes will not be held during this time period.