The SHINE program:
Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders
On Wednesday, August 19 th, 2009, Elaine Cronin from the Boston SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of the Elderly) program spoke at the department’s Elder Care Discussion forum.
What is the SHINE program?
SHINE, which is partially funded by the centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services is administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs and affiliated with other community-based human service organizations throughout the state. SHINE offers free information and guidance on health insurance to any Massachusetts residents who receive Medicare. Additionally, caregivers or advocates who are working with a client who receives Medicare can contact the SHINE program for assistance.
How can a SHINE counselor help?
SHINE counselors are highly trained and certified by the MA Office of Elder Affairs in health insurance options for Massachusetts residents. Counselors will work with Medicare recipients in person or on the phone to review insurance options or how plans work. Counselors can compare the costs and benefits of insurance plans, in addition to helping individuals with the enrollment process. Examples of insurances and programs include:
- Medicare A & B
- Medicare Advantage
- Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
- Medigap
- Prescription Advantage
- MassHealth Medicare Savings programs
- And other low or reduced cost insurance options and programs
Locate a SHINE program Counselor
Shine volunteer counselors work statewide and are often available in Senior Centers, Elder Service Agencies, and other local community organizations. Recent stimulus money has funded two positions within the SHINE program who will work selectively with individuals who are under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
To find your local SHINE counselor visit: www.mass.gov/elder or call 1-800-AGE-INFO or download the SHINE directory by town (from the mass.gov website).
-Thanks to the Elder Social Work Practice Forum (Paula Murphy, Donald Graham, Rebecca Osorio), for hosting this event and inviting CRC staff to report on it.
9/09