West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services State Health Insurance Assistance Program to expand services with new initiative

The West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services State Health Insurance Assistance Program (WV SHIP) is expanding their services through the development of a new initiative using statewide volunteer positions.  WV SHIP was awarded a Performance Improvement and Innovation grant from the Administration for Community Living.  The grant is devoted to establishing a sustainable statewide volunteer program.

WV SHIP provides assistance to seniors and persons with disabilities to understand their Medicare benefits.  As more West Virginians are becoming eligible for Medicare, trained volunteers are necessary to increase the WV SHIP workforce.  “Starting a volunteer program will allow more seniors to be reached and help them make educated Medicare decisions,” said Marcia Meeks, WV SHIP Director.

Volunteers can support WV SHIP by participating in any of the following:

1. Providing individualized health insurance assistance (Counselor);
2. Answering the state wide toll-free number, 1-877-987-4463 (Helpline);
3. Giving clerical support (Administration); and/or
4. Presenting information to community groups (Community Outreach).

Volunteers will be provided a free one-day training to deliver needed information to a wider audience.  They will also have the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, gain Medicare knowledge, and receive recognition for strengthening families and communities.  No Medicare or healthcare experience is required.  WV SHIP offers volunteers flexible scheduling with placement of positions available throughout the state.  All volunteers must submit to a background check. 

As part of the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services, WV SHIP receives funding from the Administration for Community Living and training from the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide support regarding any questions or concerns a beneficiary may have with their Medicare benefits.