Health insurance options can be confusing. SHICK volunteers help Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, and others understand their choices, access the benefits available to them, and find programs to help pay for medications and other services. SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) is a free, unbiased, and confidential program that uses trained, community volunteers to answer people’s questions about Medicare and related insurances. The goal is to educate and assist Medicare beneficiaries in making informed decisions about their health care options.
All SHICK volunteers receive training on Medicare, Medicare Prescription Drug Insurance, Medicare Supplement Insurance, and related health insurance. Training is independent online training as well as group video conference.
Volunteers must complete an application and interview process and pass a background check before being allowed to complete SHICK training. Volunteers must not hold any insurance license per program funding guidelines.
The ideal SHICK counselor has
- the ability to work with others
- a caring, confident attitude
- the ability to understand health care information and options
- a willingness to stay up-to-date with changing regulations
- familiarity with computers and the internet
- good communication skills
- strong organizational skills
Medicare Part C/D Counselor – Provides information and counseling about Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug plans (Part D) to members of the public.
Comprehensive Medicare Counselor – Provides information and counseling about Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D as well as other health insurance issues (for example Medigap, Long-Term Care, Medicare Savings Plans).
Office Assistant – Provides administrative support including data entry and other clerical duties (generally has limited contact with the public).
