About SHIIP–SMP
What is SHIIP?
The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a free, objective and confidential service. SHIIP is offered through the Iowa Insurance Division. The goal of the program is to help sort through confusing information about Medicare and other health insurance options. Trained and certified SHIIP volunteer counselors assist thousands of Iowans every year. These one-on-one counseling sessions save Iowans millions of dollars in Medicare related expenses.
Local SHIIP volunteer counselors answer questions and provide one-on-one help. For an appointment with a counselor, call your local SHIIP sponsor site.
What is SMP?
Each year Medicare loses billions of dollars due to Medicare fraud, errors and abuse. At the Iowa Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), we provide outreach and education. Services aim to promote awareness of Medicare fraud prevention and detection.
Our network of counselors also help individuals detect and report possible Medicare fraud, errors and abuse. We provide resources for consumers to protect themselves from healthcare scams.
Funding
Funding for these programs is provided in part by grant numbers 90SAPG0070 and 90MPPG0086, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not always represent official ACL or HHS policy.
Our Staff
| Staff Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Kristin Griffith | Director |
| Kristen Gidel | Trainer |
| Sherry Fuller | Volunteer & Sponsor Coordinator |
| Natalie Burnham | Caseworker |
| Sonia Ashe | Volunteer & Sponsor Coordinator |
| Marlú Abarca | Caseworker and Outreach Specialist |
| Rachel Woodward | Office Manager |
| Tracy Gilge | Secretary |
| Laura Akers | Consumer Line |
Our Location
Iowa Insurance Division
SHIIP-SMP
1963 Bell Avenue
Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50315
