Knoxville Hospital and Clinics is participating in a new statewide initiative helping Medicare beneficiaries evaluate and better understand coverage options.

Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) volunteers can help seniors and their families find answers to important questions on Medicare, supplemental insurance, long-term care insurance, other health insurance issues and Medicare prescription drug coverage. The volunteers meet with individuals who are soon to turn 65 or who have recently turned 65 and will be enrolling in Medicare for the first time, established beneficiaries curious about different coverage options, family caregivers thinking ahead for their loved one, adult children helping their parents understand Medicare and help with any other Medicare related issues. They can clarify Medicare benefits and rights, organize medical bills, Medicare statements and assist in filing claims. The SHIIP service is also offered in Marion County by Crossroads of Pella. For more information call Knoxville Hospital and Clinics at 641-842-1488 or Crossroads at 641-628-1212.