SHIP

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased, expert health insurance information, counseling, and assistance to New Mexico residents and their families.

• New Mexico SHIP is administered by the New Mexico Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and is part of the state Aging & Long-Term Services Department.
• SHIP works in collaboration with other state agencies and partners that provide social services and assistance to older adults and people with disabilities.

SHIP counselors are staff and volunteers trained and certified by the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to provide information on the various options available to Medicare beneficiaries including:

• Medicare Parts A & B
• Medicare Advantage
• Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D)
• Medigap or Supplement plans
• other programs that help people with limited resources pay for health care costs

• SHIP counselors help Medicare beneficiaries and their families navigate the complex health insurance system
• SHIP counselors explain Medicare options and complex issues in accessible language
• SHIP counselors can help you compare the costs and benefits of Medicare with other health insurance options, and can help you enroll in a health insurance program that best fits your needs
• SHIP counselors can help people with limited resources enroll in programs that help pay health insurance costs
• The SHIP program’s goal is educate the public and help people make informed decisions about Medicare coverage

• What does Medicare pay for?
• When should I enroll?
• How do I avoid a late enrollment penalty?
• Which parts of Medicare do I need?
• What is “Medigap” insurance?
• What is a Medicare HMO or Medicare Advantage plan?
• Is Medicare Advantage right for me?
• Which Part D plan will cover my drugs?
• Can I get help paying my Medicare costs?
• Do I qualify for Medicaid?
• Why did I receive a bill after seeing my doctor?
• How do I appeal a Medicare denial?
• Why wasn’t my drug paid for when I went to the pharmacy?
• Will Medicare pay for my nursing home stay?