SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors)
Helpline (425) 290-1276
The Senior Information and Assistance Program is the Snohomish
County sponsor for the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)
HelpLine. The SHIBA HelpLine is a free, confidential, and impartial counseling
resource sponsored by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
Volunteer advisors help consumers understand their rights and options,
and offer up-to-date information so that the consumer could make an informed
decision. SHIBA HelpLine volunteers are highly trained to counsel residents
of all ages regarding their choices, options and problems with private
health insurance, affordable prescription drugs, and many government programs
(Medicare, Medicaid, Basic Health, Children's Health Insurance Program,
and the Washington State Health Insurance Pool). SHIBA HelpLine volunteers
and staff are also trained to counsel people about Medigap coverage, employment-related
health benefits, managed care, long-term care insurance, medical billings
and fraud/abuse, and more.
SHIBA HelpLine can help you:
• Find affordable health insurance, prescription drugs or health care
for you and your family
• Learn about your rights and options
• Compare insurance plans and prices
• Understand government health programs
• Appeal a decision by your health plan
• Understand a bill from your doctor's office
SHIBA HelpLine is:
• Completely FREE
• Confidential - your personal information is kept safe and private
• Accessible - some operators and volunteers are bi-lingual
• Impartial/objective/unbiased - we don't sell anything or endorse
a product, plan or company over others
Help your friends, neighbors and family learn more about health insurance
and public programs! Many volunteer opportunities available! SHIBAVolunteers
receive 30 hours of basic health insurance training, monthly updates and
ongoing supervision and support by a staff member of the Washington State
Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Please contact James Pham (Volunteer
Coordinator) at 425.290.1256 for more information.
Public presentation and seminars are available to your group and or organization.
Please contact us for more details or to schedule an appointment.
Phone: 425.290.1276 or 800.562.6900
Email: shiba@sssc.org
Visit the Washington Stat SHIBA website
