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In 1999, The Idaho Commission on Aging formed the Idaho Medicare Education Partnership program, which is funded by a three-year federal grant through 2002. Using staff from the Idaho Commission on Aging, Idaho’s Senior Health Benefit Advisors (SHIBA), Area Agencies on Aging, and trained volunteers, the program is designed to help Medicare beneficiaries and their families become aware of Medicare benefits and rectify any billing problems. IMEP helps seniors read and understand their Medicare summary billing statements and become more knowledgeable and empowered in managing their medical expenses. IMEP works with providers, Medicare and beneficiaries to improve medical care for seniors in Idaho. IMEP staff and volunteers regularly offer training and assistance throughout Idaho at senior centers, civic organizations, hospitals and libraries. As an example of how the program works, in one case an elderly woman was erroneously charged for prostate surgery. After a family member notified the Medicare Education Partnership, program staff were able to help recoup approximately $9,000 from that one billing error. In one month, alone, the program recouped over $25,000 for taxpayers. Donna Denney is ICOA's project coordinator for the Idaho Medicare Education Project. Call her at (208) 334-3833 if you have questions about IMEP. To get the help you need with Medicare and/or insurance problems and questions, or to receive training to be an IMEP volunteer in your community, contact your nearest SHIBA representative:
Other useful information can be found at these websites: Senior Medicare Patrols Consumer Protection Tips CIGNA Healthcare Medicare Administration Retired Senior Volunteer Program
NEW brochures about Medicare coverage of
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