SHIIP-SMP Sponsor Site Awards Go To…
While SHIIP-SMP volunteers are best known for providing one-on-one Medicare counseling- including helping Medicare beneficiaries compare their plan options - they do so much more!
Starting in 2021, volunteers at two SHIIP-SMP Sponsor Sites have been recognized for being the “Best in State” at helping clients find financial assistance to cover Medicare costs and helping clients avoid Medicare fraud, scams and abuse. This year the awards were presented to UnityPoint Health Grinnell Regional Medical Center and Lucas County Health Center.
MIPPA Best in State Award - UnityPoint Health Grinnell Regional Medical Center
The MIPPA Award celebrates a site where volunteers prioritize screening clients about their income and assets to identify eligibility for financial assistance covering Part B premiums and drug costs. That means taking the extra time to talk with clients to understand their unique financial situations and then ensuring they get support completing applications for assistance. This year the MIPPA Best in State Award was presented to Kossuth Regional Health Center. The award highlights the commitment of the Kossuth team in supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities to navigate their Medicare options with confidence and care. We are pleased to recognize the amazing team of Marla Steier, Sharon Berte, Paula Seely, Peg Skilling and Trish Casey- who screened 92.8% of their clients for assistance.
SMP Best in State Award – Lucas County Health Center
The SMP Award celebrates volunteers who are building awareness and educating their clients on how to avoid common Medicare fraud and scams. This includes tips on when to hang up, spotting false ads, and the advice to NEVER share your Medicare number over the phone.
The SHIIP-SMP volunteer team at Greater Regional Medical Center has once again been recognized as a SMP Best in State. The site also took home the award in 2022. SHIIP-SMP volunteer counselors Valarie Allen and Suzanne Carlson take pride in making sure clients are aware of risks and how they can protect themselves from Medicare fraud and scams.
“At SHIIP-SMP we are grateful to work with dedicated volunteers who consistently go the extra mile to support their clients. Helping ensure clients can afford their Medicare Insurance and providing education to prevent clients from falling victims to Medicare scams are critical pieces of the SHIIP-SMP benefit in our communities.” emphasized Kristin Griffith, SHIIP-SMP Director.