Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be daunting for beneficiaries. Fortunately, the GeorgiaCares program is dedicated to ensuring every Medicare beneficiary in Georgia fully understands the services available through this crucial federal and state health insurance program.
This public-private partnership offers invaluable support by helping Medicare beneficiaries understand their coverage options and enroll in a Medicare plan that best suits their individual healthcare needs. GeorgiaCares provides access to trained counselors who offer free, unbiased assistance to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with qualifying disabilities who are enrolled in Medicare. This eliminates the need for beneficiaries to pay for help in understanding their vital healthcare benefits.
Through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), GeorgiaCares delivers personalized counseling, educational resources, and community outreach across Georgia. SHIP is designed to empower beneficiaries to confidently navigate the landscape of Medicare health and drug plans. This includes detailed explanations and support for Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C), long-term care insurance, and various other supplemental health insurance options.
Beyond plan selection, GeorgiaCares also manages the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program. SMP is crucial in educating Medicare beneficiaries on how to safeguard their personal information and proactively detect, prevent, and report potential instances of healthcare errors, fraud, and abuse, protecting them from scams and financial exploitation.
Last year alone, GeorgiaCares successfully reached over 99,817 individuals through SHIP and SMP outreach and educational initiatives, demonstrating its significant impact across the state. The program’s effectiveness is amplified by a network of 238 dedicated volunteers working in collaboration with Area Agencies on Aging and the Georgia Legal Services Program, extending its reach and impact within communities.
GeorgiaCares is administered by the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services. For those seeking comprehensive information about the GeorgiaCares program and other essential services available to older adults and their families in Georgia, please visit the DHS Division of Aging Services website at www.aging.ga.gov or call their toll-free helpline at 1-866-552-4464 and select Option 4 to connect with a knowledgeable Medicare counselor.
