Access 2 Independence is collaborating with SHIIP on a project to improve access to unbiased Medicare information for those who qualify for Medicare because of a disability.  SHIIP is a statewide program that maintains a network of trained volunteers who serve as medicare peer counselors.  These volunteers make themselves available in their home communities for one-on-one meetings with people who have questions about or problems with Medicare.

Up till now, SHIIP’s primary demographic focus has been older adults.  However, they have recently decided to focus on expanding their services to persons with disabilities (who qualify for Medicare when they qualify for Social Security Disability).  As part of this project, Access 2 Independence has been visiting agencies in the state of Iowa to survey obstacles that people with disabilities encounter in the Medicare program, to introduce them to SHIIP, and to recruit new volunteer counselors.  We are excited to be a part of a project that will benefit people statewide and to begin offering Medicare counseling services out of our Iowa City location.

Members of the SHIIP project team from Access 2 Independence are Abbey Almelien, Aaron Cannon, and Sarah Marcum.  If you would like more information, email Sarah or let us know in the comments!