The State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP,  is a volunteer-based program that provides free, unbiased and factual information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers with health and drug plans. SHIP helps people with Medicare understand their benefits and make informed decisions about health care options.

• SHIP counseling services are free.
• SHIP provides non-biased opinions.
• SHIP is not affiliated with any insurance company.
• SHIP does not sell or solicit any type of insurance.
• SHIP counselors can help people with Medicare understand their health plan choices, enroll in a Medicare plan that meets their needs, review Medicare Summary Notice(s), review Explanation of Benefits, sort through medical bills and assist in filing Medicare claims and appeals, help people apply for financial assistance programs to reduce Medicare out-of-pocket expenses

Local assistance is available for health insurance related issues including Medicare, Medicaid, prescription drug assistance programs, financial assistance programs and long-term care insurance.

SHIP is a public-private partnership, administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Aging Services (DAS).

For more information please contact SHIP at 706-549-4850 or to find upcoming events check out our Facebook. You may also reach the SHIP office at 1-866-55-AGING or learn more at the Georgia SHIP website.

Medicare Resources

While we hope you will find the resources below helpful, we understand each person’s situation is unique. If you would like individualized, unbiased counseling and assistance regarding Medicare, please contact the GeorgiaCares program at ACCA and we’ll be happy to help you! You can reach us by phone, 706-549-4850, or email georgiacares@accaging.org.

2022 Medicare & You Handbook

This is the official U.S. government Medicare Handbook from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service. This guide is updated each year. If you would like a paper copy of this handbook please call the GeorgiaCares program at 706-549-4850 or email georgiacares@accaging.org.

GeorgiaCares Preventive Services Guide

This guide lists screenings and/or tests that are free if you have Original Medicare and if the doctor or other qualified health care provider accepts assignment. If you are in a Medicare advantage Plan your cost may be different. If you have questions about preventative service coverage we are happy to help! You can reach us by phone, 706-549-4850, or email georgiacares@accaging.org.

GeorgiaCares The Importance of having a Prescription Drug Plan

It is important that you consider your options when choosing a prescription drug plan once you become eligible for Medicare. If you would like individualized, unbiased assistance in choosing and enrolling in a prescription plan we are here to help! Please call the GeorgiaCares program at 706-549-4850 or email georgiacares@accaging.org.

GARD Keep Your Brain Strong

Did you know your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is free and that it includes a memory screening?

GeorgiaCares Medicare Minute

The following resources are provided by the Medicare Rights Center through GeorgiaCares, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

2021

July 2021: Troubleshooting Medicare Coverage Problems

June 2021: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Appeals

May 2021: Medicare Cost Assistance Programs

April 2021: Medicare and Changes in Residence

March 2021: Medicare’s Coverage of Care at Home

February 2021: Medicare Coverage of Behavioral Health Care Services

January 2021: What’s New for Medicare in 2021?

2020

December 2020: What should I know about Medicare’s coverage of skilled therapy?

November 2020: Choosing Your Part D Prescription Drug Coverage

September 2020: Preparing for Future Health Care Needs

August 2020: Medicare Coverage of Skilled Nursing Facility Care