Access free, unbiased information about healthcare coverage. If you or a loved one are Medicare-eligible, contact your local resource center.
Common Questions
SHIBA is a free, confidential resource sponsored by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner through partnership with AAADSW.
SHIBA advisors are highly experienced volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who have completed extensive training to help you understand your Medicare rights and options.
What is SHIBA?
The Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) is a service of the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. SHIBA provides free, unbiased, confidential help with Medicare to people of all ages and backgrounds. Our well-trained volunteer advisors can help you understand the benefits available to you, explore cost saving programs, and compare benefits packages to help you make informed choices about your healthcare. AAADSW is the SHIBA sponsor for Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Skamania, and Wahkiakum Counties in partnership with the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
Get Help with Medicare
SHIBA can help you understand your Medicare rights and options. Volunteers provide counseling and education about Medicare choices and options, including:
- Original Medicare
- Prescription Drugs
- Help Paying for Medicare
- Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans
- Medicare Advantage Plans
- Issues with Medicare Fraud and Abuse
How can I book a consultation with a SHIBA volunteer?
Anyone who would like to speak with a local SHIBA Volunteer about their Medicare questions can reach our AAADSW SHIBA team at 360-759-4676 (our SHIBA team line), or by emailing us at AAADSW.SHIBA@dshs.wa.gov.
Please include your name, the county you live in, contact information, and (if possible) a sense of what your Medicare questions are. A local SHIBA Volunteer will follow up to assist within two business days.
Additionally, anyone with Medicare questions can also call the Insurance Hotline at the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC): 800-562-6900. OIC’s representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The OIC website is also a great resource for people who want to learn more about Medicare: https://www.insurance.wa.gov.
Volunteer Opportunities
Interested in becoming a SHIBA Volunteer?
- Learn more about the opportunity from volunteers.
- Download a Volunteer Application (see green box below)
Send the completed application byemail to AAADSW.SHIBA@dshs.wa.gov. or mail it to:
Pamala Monahan, SHIBA Program Coordinator
201 NE 73rd Street
Vancouver, WA 98665
360-759-4676
