
For help understanding Medicare contact SHIIP-SMP at 1-800-351-4664
With the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) we advocate for, inform, educate and assist consumers on Medicare and related health insurance issues so they can make informed decisions and access resources to address their needs.
Our Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) empowers and assists Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers to prevent, detect and report health care fraud, errors and abuse.
SHIIP helps people on Medicare apply for assistance with their Part A and Part B premiums, copays and coinsurance, and prescription drug costs.
For more information about Medicare and COVID-19, view the SHIIP--SMP factsheets Medicare & COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update. and Enrolling in Medicare During COVID-19.

Make your health a priority. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit once within the first 12 months you have Part B. If you’ve had Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) for longer than 12 months, you can get a yearly “Wellness” visit once every 12 months to develop or update a personalized prevention plan.

Contact your local SHIIP for personalized, one-on-one counseling and assistance with understanding how Medicare works with your other insurance, including how to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Want to know what Medicare covers with the Cornavirus? Check out our Coronavirus factsheet and our online resources to help you learn more.

Medicare fraud puts the future of Medicare at risk. Medicare loses billions of dollars each year due to fraud, errors and abuse. Estimates place these losses at approximately $60 billion annually, though the exact figure is impossible to measure. You can help the fight against Medicare fraud by sharing this information with your friends and family.

New to Medicare? Medicare can be confusing. It's okay to get help. Contact your SHIIP at 1-800-351-4664(TTY 1-800-735-2942)or email SHIIP--SMP at shiip@iid.iowa.gov.
How SHIIP--SMP Helped Me
For some, The SHIIP--SMP program's in-person help was essential for understanding the complexities of Medicare and making good choices. For others, SHIIP--SMP education helped them save on their health care costs.

Fraudsters are attempting to bill Medicare for fake tests, treatments, and vaccines related to the Coronavirus. They are targeting seniors to illegally obtain money or their Medicare numbers. Don't fall victim. Know the scams impacting Iowans.