SHIP WEEK HIGHLIGHTS INSURANCE COUNSELING SERVICES

SPRINGFIELD --Governor George H. Ryan has proclaimed September 11-15, 2000, SHIP Week in Illinois to acknowledge the dedication of over 700 volunteers who provide free health insurance counseling to thousands of Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers.

The Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) trains volunteers to assist Illinois citizens who have problems with and questions about Medicare, Medicare supplement, Medicare HMOs, long term care and other types of health care insurance. SHIP is sponsored by the Illinois Department of Insurance in cooperation with community organizations around the state.

"SHIP Week in Illinois is a public expression of appreciation to the selfless men and women who volunteer thousands of hours to make our counseling program possible," Ryan said. "Their commitment has made Illinois SHIP one of the premier senior assistance programs in the nation. Last year, SHIP counselors conducted 19,600 counseling sessions that saved Illinois seniors more than $1.2 million. That's an example of government working with volunteers to benefit the public."

SHIP Week also highlights the many services available to Illinois seniors who are struggling to cope with the complexities of Medicare and related health insurance programs. "Recent announcements that several Medicare HMOs are leaving the Illinois market make those services especially important this year," Ryan noted. "SHIP counselors have been thoroughly trained to help Medicare beneficiaries make a smooth transition to another health insurance plan."

SHIP offices are located in nearly every county in Illinois. Many communities have planned special SHIP Week activities ranging from free health care screening and expanded counseling hours to information booths in malls and grocery stores. For further information on SHIP or to access the free counseling services, call 1-800-548-9034.