DCBS Media ReleaseJanuary 13, 2000 State receives grant to help Medicare beneficiariesSALEM – The Oregon Insurance Division has been awarded grants totaling $357,763 to continue and expand the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program. SHIBA is a joint federal-state program that provides information and counseling services to help Oregon senior citizens and other Medicare beneficiaries make better health insurance decisions. It operates a toll-free information line (1-800-722-4134), publishes brochures and booklets, and conducts educational seminars. In addition, several hundred SHIBA volunteers around the state provide one-on-one counseling for Medicare beneficiaries. Volunteers help individuals determine if they're receiving all the benefits they're entitled to, compare insurance policies, file claims and make effective appeals. The federal Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) awarded a $290,313 continuation grant to SHIBA, plus $67,450 in additional funding to expand its telephone information service, help volunteer sponsor organizations better utilize the Internet and computers, and increase outreach activities, especially to minority populations. Grant funding runs through March 15, 2001. |
