CHOICES

Have questions about Medicare? Call your local SHIP!

In Connecticut, the SHIP program is called CHOICES. It is a free program that gives clear and unbiased help with health insurance. It is for people who have Medicare, as well as their families and caregivers. CHOICES stands for Connecticut Health Insurance Assistance, Outreach, Information and Referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening.

Whether you are new to Medicare, looking at your plan choices, or need help using your benefits, we are here for you. Our team will help you understand your options so you can make smart decisions and get the care you need.

This program is a partnership between Aging and Disability Services (ADS), the five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), and the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc.

CHOICES offers the following services in person, or by phone, email, and other easy-to-use ways:

• Free, one-on-one help with all parts of Medicare. This includes Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage).
• Help signing up for plans and comparing Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.
• Help finding out if you qualify for programs that lower costs, like Medicaid, the Medicare Savings Program, and Extra Help.
• Information about Medicare’s preventive services, like check-ups and screenings.
• Help finding other state programs and long-term care services.
• Education for providers and caregivers.