Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
The North Carolina Department of Insurance’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides information to seniors about Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, and long-term care insurance. Through their NC Senior Medicare Patrol (NCSMP) Program, they also assist seniors in identifying and stopping Medicare billing problems as well as potential fraud and abuse. Contact SHIIP, toll-free at 1-855-408-1212.
NC MedAssist Free Pharmacy Program
Residents of North Carolina who are uninsured and earn no more than 300% of the federal poverty level or less are eligible for free prescription medication through the Free Pharmacy Program. For those who lack the resources to receive life-saving medications to manage chronic illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, and asthma, this statewide program offers the solution. Visit their website: https://medassist.org/
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Live in North Carolina
- Uninsured with no access to Medicaid, Medicare, VA insurance, or private insurance. (Medicaid patients with family planning only and Medicare patients in the Part D coverage gap are still eligible.)
- Income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level
Your total gross household income must be at or below the amounts listed in the chart below.
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Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide public service provided by the U.S. Administration on Aging. It was created to help older people and their families find neighborhood aging and long-term care resources and support services. It performs the role of a referral service, putting people in touch with locally offered programs and services that are based in the community. It provides advice and support on a variety of issues pertaining to aging. Call 1-800-677-1116 (hours of operation are Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET) or log on to www.eldercare.gov.
Senior Information Hotline
Call the South Carolina Office on Aging toll-free at 1-800-868-9095 or 803-734-9900 for more details about other services and programs available to seniors in the state. Alternatively, visit www.scaccesshelp.org or www.aging.sc.gov online.
Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) in South Carolina assists in resolving grievances submitted by or on behalf of residents of long-term care institutions. Concerns about living quality and healthcare quality are addressed. LTCOP may provide assistance with a variety of problems, such as:
- Violations of rights
- Improper transfer or discharge of a resident
- Assistance with benefits
- Dignity and respect
- Abuse, neglect or exploitation
Please contact the SCDOA Long- Term Care Ombudsman at 1-800-868-9095 if you have any suspicions of abuse or neglect at a long-term care facility.