Senior Resource Connection

Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program

An Ocean of Information

When Americans turn 65, they receive the benefits of our federal Medicare program--and little instruction in the complex rules and regulations governing it. Information may be available but it's often confusing and overwhelming. Choices about private health insurance, Medicare, and rising health care costs leave many seniors baffled.

Between 1978 and 1990, several state governments began providing free information about health care options to their older citizens. These pioneer health insurance counseling programs have assisted thousands of seniors in making better decisions about health insurance coverage.

Molded after successful programs in Washington, North Carolina, and California, the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) began providing services to Ohio citizens in 1992. In June of 1993, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), sponsored locally by the Senior Resource Connection began training volunteers for insurance counseling services in Montgomery County.

OSHIIP's Mission is...

To educate the senior public about Medicare and other health insurance issues.
To provide accurate and objective counseling assistance, and advocacy relating to Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance.

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Who Uses OSHIIP?

Anyone eligible for Medicare or Medicaid can take advantage of OSHIIP's services. Volunteers provide personalized information about:

Medicare
Medicaid
private health insurance
long-term care insurance planning
retirement health plans
meeting current health care expenses
claims assistance

OSHIIP also councils families of Medicare recipients who are themselves unable to attend counseling sessions.

OSHIIP's services are free of charge.

OSHIIP Volunteers

Volunteers are required to complete a comprehensive training program from the Ohio Department of Insurance and Aging including instruction on Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and counseling techniques.

New volunteers are always needed! Many volunteers are seniors helping seniors but volunteers of all ages are welcome. For information on becoming a volunteer, contact OSHIIP at the RSVP office at 223-8246 ext. 51.

Locations

Volunteers offer service at locations throughout Montgomery County. Offices are set up for private, one-on-one counseling sessions.

All counseling sessions should be arranged in advance through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. To set up a date and time for your counseling, call 223-8246 ext. 51.