State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) of Union County

Do you have problems or questions regarding your health insurance, such as:

• How much insurance do I really need?
• What do I do if Medicare denies payment for a claim?
• Who do I call if I have a question about a claim?
• What are the gaps in Medicare coverage?
• Does Medicare pay for nursing home care?
• Should I stay in original Medicare or choose Medicare + Choice Plan?
• Should I consider adding the new Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) Coverage?

If you are a Medicare beneficiary and a resident of Union County with questions about Medicare claims, supplemental policies or long-term care insurance, SHIP can help.  SHIP is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, a statewide program administered by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, Division of Senior Affairs, with major funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.  SAGE Eldercare is the sponsoring organization for the program in Union County. 

Call the Union County office of SHIP at (908) 273-6999 for assistance.  The program is free, objective and confidential.  Volunteer counselors, trained by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services and/or the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, will provide information and assistance for dealing with claims and evaluating health insurance needs.  SHIP counselors can also discuss options such as whether to remain in a traditional Medicare plan or choose a Medicare + Choice plan.  Volunteer counselors do not provide legal advice, sell, recommend or endorse any specific insurance product, agent, insurance company or HMO.  They provide information and assistance so that clients can make their own decisions. Counselors are also available on a regular basis at SAGE Eldercare, 290 Broad Street, Summit, and at specific locations throughout Union County.

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