Definition
Programs that offer information and guidance for older adults and people with disabilities regarding their health insurance options with the objective of empowering them to make informed choices. Included is information about benefits covered (and not covered); the payment process; the rights of beneficiaries; the process for eligibility determinations, coverage denials and appeals; consumer safeguards; and options for filling the gap in Medicare coverage (Medigap supplement insurance). Also available is information relating to an individual's eligibility for benefits and assistance with evaluating their options and enrolling in a Medicare plan (A, B, C, and/or D) that will best meet their needs. These programs also address coordination of benefits when beneficiaries have other types of health insurance in addition to Medicare (e.g. Medicaid, employer coverage or retiree insurance) and provide counseling and assistance regarding the subsidies that are available to low income beneficiaries enrolled in the Part D Prescription Drug Benefit (which help pay for Part D premiums and reduce the cost of prescriptions at the pharmacy) and the Medicare Savings Programs which help pay for Medicare out-of-pocket costs. They may also provide information about Medicaid and the linkages between the two programs, referrals to appropriate state and local agencies involved in the Medicaid program, information about other Medicare-related entities (such as peer review organizations, Medicare-approved prescription drug plans, Medicare administrative contractors), and assistance in completing related Medicare insurance forms.
URL Name
LH-3500-5000
Third Level Code
LH-3500
Taxonomy Code
LH-3500.5000
Parent Code
LH-3500
Family Code
L
Second Level Code
LH
Fourth Level Code
LH-3500-5000
Use References
LIS Information/Counseling, Medicare Benefits Assistance, Medicare Benefits Counseling, Medicare Benefits Guidance, Medicare Counseling, Medicare Part D Information, Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy Information/Counseling, SHIBA Programs, SHINE Programs, SHIP Programs, State Insurance Assistance Programs, Medicare Savings Program Information/Counseling
Publication Status
Online