Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK)

Many older Kansans and their family members need advice about health insurance issues, especially those centered around Medicare. They need to be aware of Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK).

Information on SHICK can be found on the website of the Kansas Department on Aging at:

http://agingkansas.org/SHICK/shick_index.html

SHICK counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Long-Term Care and other health insurance subjects that concern older Kansans. The counselors do not work for any insurance company. They are working to assist the public to make informed health care decisions. Those who need help can call 1-800-860-5260 to get started or they can go to the Locating Help tab at:

http://agingkansas.org/SHICK/psa_map.html

and click on the home county to receive information on the local SCHICK Coordinators in their area. There are several basic brochures on Medicare Coverage and Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage, that might help individuals decide what questions they need to ask. There is also a FAQ that answers questions on legal issues and health care options. The FAQ tab is available at:

http://agingkansas.org/kdoa/FAQ.html

It is also possible to send short, specific questions by email form at:

http://agingkansas.org/SHICK/questions.html

This is a service that more Kansans should be aware of if they are going to make informed health care decisions in their later years.