SHIIP Medicare Counseling
As the Forsyth County coordinating site for the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), Shepherd's Center trained volunteers can help answer your questions about Medicare, Prescription Drug Plans, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans and long-term care insurance.
SHIIP is a program of the N.C. Department of Insurance, which offers free guidance to Medicare beneficiaries who need more information about or assistance with their insurance coverage, how Medicare works, what is covered and what to do next. You'll get unbiased information in simple-to-understand language.
See what SHIIP can do for you: https://youtu.be/t04Mo8UYoYs
For residents of the Forsyth County ... Call 336-748-0217 or email Info@shepherdscenter.org
For residents of other counties, the North Carolina SHIIP Website can be reached by calling 855-408-1212 or can found at: http://www.ncdoi.com/Consumer/SHIIP
The Shepherd's Center holds regular "Welcome to Medicare" workshops designed for those who are new to Medicare.
If you will be eligible for Medicare soon, the workshop “Welcome to Medicare" workshops designed for those who are new to Medicare. Please see below.
Monthly Welcome to Medicare Sessions
To accommodate those still working, or if a daytime meeting is not convenient, the Shepherd's Center currently holds virtual sessions once a month. See the link below for the next workshop and location.
You may register for the session by calling or emailing the Shepherd's Center:
Telephone: 336-748-0217
email: info@shepherdscenter.org.
Enroll in Medicare On-line
It’s convenient, quick and easy. There’s no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.
Use the online application to sign up for Medicare. It takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation is required. Social Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. Otherwise you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail.
Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Social Security works with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare.
For more information about applying for Medicare only and delaying retirement benefits, visit Applying for Medicare Only – Before You Decide.
To enroll on-line go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/medicare/apply.html
Annual Open Enrollment Sessions
The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment period is from October 15 to December 7. During that time, Medicare Beneficiaries can elect to change their Medicare plans including Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug plans, and if qualified, elect a Medigap or Supplement plan. Sessions will be held through the Shepherd's Center during Open Enrollment. Most sessions will be done virtually to protect beneficiaries and counselors. Reservations are required.
Using The Medicare Website to Enroll in Plans
The Medicare website (www.medicare.gov) is an excellent resource for individuals who wish to compare plans as well as enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Prescription Drug Plan. A tutorial is attached to guide you through the process. If you need assistance, please call and we will provide you assistance. SEE ATTACHED RESOURCE FOR GUIDANCE