SHIBA offers unbiased advice
Julie Shepard-Hall’s comments on April 2 require a response. As a SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) volunteer, I help people with their Medicare questions by familiarizing them with the Medicare.gov website and helping them find medical insurance plans that best fit their needs.
Since I do not get paid by an insurance company (or anyone), I can explain the pluses and minuses of each option without bias. We look at every available plan, not only the ones sold by an agent. Many of our SHIBA volunteers are also trained to assist clients with Medicaid paperwork.
New volunteers are mentored to ensure accuracy in the advice they give. Our training is ongoing and done by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. We do not sell policies. We only guide clients; they make their own decisions. We remain available to clients for further questions.
Recently, I helped a client save $300 per month by switching to an in-network pharmacy. SHIBA offers free, unbiased Medicare advice to everyone on Medicare. It is a great service to our seniors.
Sue Webber
Spokane Valley