Helping North Dakotans navigate Medicare
North Dakotans like Judy Werner of Flasher, right, can get free, unbiased help through NDSHIP to navigate the complex Medicare system, from exploring coverage options to deciphering bills and statements, and even supporting claims and appeals. PHOTO COURTESY N.D. INSURANCE AND SECURITIES DEPARTMENT
When Judy Werner of Flasher reached retirement, she knew the Medicare system would be an important part of her future, but also a daunting one.
“I’m sure the retirement plans are difficult to understand for many people,” she says, “so it's good to have a representative who has the knowledge and skills to help make those decisions.”
For Werner and thousands of others across the state, the N.D. State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as NDSHIP, provides that helping hand. With free, unbiased guidance, NDSHIP counselors assist Medicare beneficiaries with understanding complex coverage options, deciphering bills and statements, and even supporting claims and appeals. Whether you live in Fargo or Flasher, NDSHIP’s mission is to ensure every North Dakotan on Medicare can make informed decisions with confidence.
Meeting rural needs with local know-how
Understanding Medicare isn’t easy. With its multiple parts – A (hospital insurance), B (medical insurance), C (Medicare Advantage) and D (prescription drug coverage) – along with Medigap and more, it’s no wonder many seniors and caregivers feel overwhelmed. In rural areas where access to expert help can be limited, this confusion can lead to real stress. That’s where NDSHIP makes a difference.
The program connects people with trained counselors who provide free, one-on-one assistance by phone and online. These counselors aren’t affiliated with insurance companies and don’t sell anything. They’re simply there to help North Dakotans understand their options and make the best choice for their health and finances.
“People think they need to have everything figured out on their own, but they don’t,” says Karri Morris, Medicare manager with the N.D. Insurance and Securities Department. “We're here to walk them through it, step by step.”
Beyond the basics
NDSHIP’s services go well beyond choosing a plan. Counselors assist with understanding medical bills, reviewing explanation of benefits or EOB forms, resolving claims issues and even filing appeals if a service is denied.
For seniors navigating long-term care insurance, NDSHIP offers another layer of support. Counselors help beneficiaries understand how their long-term care policies work with Medicare or other insurance, ensuring they get the full benefits to which they're entitled.
“We often work with families who are trying to help their loved ones,” Morris says. “It’s a big relief for people when they realize they’re not alone in this.”
A lifeline during annual enrollment
One of the busiest times for NDSHIP is the Medicare annual enrollment period, which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this window, beneficiaries can change drug plans or Medicare Advantage plans. NDSHIP counselors help people compare costs, check whether their medications are covered, and find plans that work best for their individual health needs and budget.
Phone appointments are available during the Part D and Medicare Advantage open enrollment period to help consumers find the best plans for their needs.
The savings can be significant. In some cases, NDSHIP counselors have helped individuals discover plan changes that saved them hundreds of dollars a year, just by switching to a more affordable option that covers the same prescriptions.
The power of unbiased guidance
What makes NDSHIP unique is its independence. Funded by federal and state dollars, NDSHIP counselors aren’t in sales. Their only goal is to educate and empower.
That’s something Judy Werner appreciated when she reached out for help.
“It really helps to have someone who knows the system and can break it down in plain language,” she says. “It takes a lot of stress out of the process.”
___
Jacob Just is the former director of communications with the N.D. Insurance and Securities Department.
How to get help
Whether you're enrolling in Medicare for the first time, trying to understand a medical bill, or exploring long-term care coverage, NDSHIP can help. Services are available by phone or virtually.
To find your local counselor or schedule a free consultation, visit insurance.nd.gov/medicare or call 888-575-6611. Assistance is confidential, unbiased and always free.
