Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program & Medicare Patrol

08/20/2026

The Iowa Insurance Division is seeking an Administrative Assistant 2 to manage key office functions and support volunteers for SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program) and SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol. SHIIP and SMP operate a state-wide network of over 400 volunteers providing free Medicare-related counseling and information for Iowans.

Apply today!

https://ow.ly/to5f50ZBECL

06/17/2026

If you are turning 65 and still working, it is important to understand the health insurance options available to you (and your spouse if you are married). Learn more about timing and factors that may influence your decision to enroll in Medicare or delay without penalties: https://shiip.iowa.gov/get-started/eligibility-enrollment

06/15/2026

⚽ Yellow cards, red cards, or Medicare cards? Master the rules with your official playbook! Use your official "Medicare & You" handbook to navigate annual changes in coverage, costs, and plan options.

Flip to page 114 for your SHIIP Medicare experts for free coaching on your benefits!

06/03/2026

05/14/2026

How does medical identity theft really affect you? Here are just a few examples.

- False or missed diagnoses
- Incorrect lab results
- Bills for services you didn't receive
- Denied services or prescriptions

Medicare fraud is a BIG deal. Protect yourself by learning more here: smpresource.org/you-can-help.

05/12/2026

For the first time ever, Medicare will unlock breakthrough weight-loss medications for just $50 a month, giving millions of seniors access to life-changing treatments previously out of reach. Starting July 1, 2026, the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program means affordable innovation is finally within reach for eligible people with Medicare Part D.

Remember, if you qualify, Medicare Part B also covers obesity screenings and behavioral counseling. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your options for weight loss and better health!

05/08/2026

You have a right to emergency medical care regardless of your insurance status or ability to pay. ER services are typically provided when you have a medical condition that requires immediate action, such as an injury or sudden illness. You don't need a referral for emergency care, and your plan cannot require you to see in-network providers for emergency care.

Contact SHIIP-SMP if you have been denied coverage of emergency care and need assistance with an appeal. Call us at 1-800-351-4664, or visit shiip.iowa.gov to find a SHIIP-SMP sponsor site near you.

05/07/2026

Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (MFPW) is less than one month away! Medicare Fraud Prevention Week focuses on the actions everyone can take to prevent Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Learn how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from Medicare fraud by joining the SMP June 1-5 to celebrate the week!

Learn more at: https://shiip.iowa.gov/prevent-fraud/medicare-fraud-spotlight-fraud-prevention-week.

05/07/2026

If you open a letter with a plastic Medicare card in it, don't "activate it." This is a scam. Medicare is not sending plastic Medicare cards. Report this to SHIIP/SMP at 1-800-351-4664.