What SHIIP provides
The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) offers unbiased assistance to help Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, and families make informed coverage decisions. SHIIP explains Parts A and B, Medicare Advantage (Part C), prescription drug coverage (Part D), Medigap options, and programs that lower costs for eligible Iowans.
- One‑on‑one Medicare counseling in person and by phone
- Plan reviews for Part D and Medicare Advantage during open enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7) and throughout the year for qualifying life events
- Medigap comparisons and guidance on when to enroll without penalties
- Help understanding claims, appeals, notices, and billing
- Referrals to savings programs and financial assistance when eligible
About Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
Senior Medicare Patrol empowers Medicare beneficiaries, families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report suspected health care fraud, errors, and abuse. SMP counselors educate on common scams, review statements, and coordinate with state and federal partners to resolve issues when needed.
- Education on common Medicare scams and how to spot red flags
- Help reviewing Medicare Summary Notices and Explanation of Benefits
- Guidance to report suspected fraud and identity theft
- Collaboration with HHS‑OIG, CMS, and state partners on cases
Meet Our Local SHIIP Counselor
Steve Simmons is the Madison County SHIIP counselor offering confidential, one‑on‑one appointments by phone or in person at Madison County Health Care System’s Chesnut Building. Steve helps compare plans, review drug lists, explain coverage, and provide step‑by‑step enrollment support.
Who benefits from SHIIP services
SHIIP serves Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, and those approaching eligibility, including individuals under 65 on Medicare due to disability and people dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Counseling is objective, confidential, and free of sales.
- New to Medicare and comparing Original Medicare vs. Advantage
- Reviewing Part D drug coverage and pharmacy networks
- Evaluating Medigap and timing to avoid underwriting
- Understanding covered services, preventive care, and costs
- Resolving billing questions or filing an appeal
When to schedule an appointment
Appointments are available year‑round, with high demand during Medicare Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7. Book early to ensure time for plan comparisons, medication reviews, and enrollment steps before deadlines.
- Turning 65 within the next 3–6 months
- Retiring and leaving employer coverage
- Moving, changing providers, or new prescriptions
- Annual Part D or Advantage plan check‑up
What to bring to a SHIIP visit
Bringing current information helps the counselor provide accurate, personalized recommendations.
- Medicare card and any other insurance cards
- List of prescriptions, dosages, and preferred pharmacies
- Recent Medicare Summary Notices or bills
- Employer or retiree coverage documents, if applicable
Fraud prevention tips from SMP
Protect Medicare benefits by taking these simple steps to prevent and detect fraud.
- Guard the Medicare number; treat it like a credit card
- Review statements for services not received or duplicate charges
- Be wary of unsolicited calls, “free” offers, or pressure to sign
- Report suspected fraud promptly for investigation and support
How to schedule
Call (515) 462‑5370 to schedule a SHIIP or SMP appointment with Steve Simmons. Appointments are by appointment only and held at the Chesnut Building on the Madison County Health Care System campus in Winterset.
Local events and education
Watch for Welcome to Medicare seminars hosted at Madison County Health Care System; these sessions cover enrollment timelines, plan comparisons, and ways to protect against scams.
Location and hours
Madison County Health Care System – Chesnut Building, 300 W Hutchings St, Winterset, IA 50273. Appointments available – call to schedule.
Disclaimers and program notes
SHIIP‑SMP services are provided through the Iowa Insurance Division with funding support from the Administration for Community Living; services are free, objective, and confidential. Local sites provide counseling but do not sell insurance. For more information, visit https://shiip.iowa.gov/