ISR SHIBA Volunteers – Untangling Medicare Insurance Plans
By Nic Wildeman, Executive Director & Cheryn Weiser, Interim Director of Programs
Need Help with Medicare? ISR & SHIBA Are Here for You
Choosing a Medicare plan or reviewing your health insurance options can be confusing, but Island Senior Resources (ISR) is here to help every step of the way. Through our partnership with the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program, Island County residents have access to free, confidential, and locally based Medicare guidance from trained volunteers who know the unique needs of our community.
What is SHIBA?
SHIBA is a statewide service run by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased help as you compare Medicare plans, understand your benefits, evaluate supplemental policies, or address questions about coverage and costs. SHIBA volunteers are not insurance agents. They never sell products or push you toward any company; they’re just here to make sure you make the best choices for your own health and budget.
How Does ISR Support You?
Any Island County senior can schedule a one-on-one SHIBA consultation—whether at ISR’s offices, other community locations, or virtually from the comfort of home. These meetings are always free and private. Our SHIBA volunteers review your current Medicare coverage, explain new plan options for the coming year, and help you compare prescription drug costs and supplemental insurance. Often, clients can save hundreds of dollars each year simply by switching to a plan that better fits their needs.
SHIBA Volunteers Know Island County
All ISR SHIBA consultants are Island County residents dedicated to helping their neighbors live well and age with dignity. Our volunteers complete intensive training and stay up to date year-round on the latest Medicare changes. Their expertise ensures that recommendations are personalized; taking into account your health, preferred providers, and financial situation.
Why It Matters
Health insurance is more complex than ever, and one small decision can have a big financial impact. It is easy to be overwhelmed by new plan designs and annual updates, but the SHIBA program takes the guesswork out of your choices. Every year, Island County SHIBA volunteers help hundreds of seniors get the right coverage at the right price, providing not only peace of mind but also critical savings.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Open enrollment starts October 15th and ends December 7th!
If you or a loved one is approaching Medicare eligibility or needing to review your current plan, don’t wait—contact Island Senior Resources to schedule your free SHIBA appointment. Our team is here to answer your questions, empower your decisions, and support you in accessing the healthcare you deserve.
Call ISR or visit our website to get started, or learn more at the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner SHIBA page for statewide resources. If you schedule a SHIBA appointment, remember to bring your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), if you have received one, along with a list of your current medications. These details help our SHIBA advisors give you the best guidance for your coverage needs!
SHIBA and Island Senior Resources: Here to help you make Medicare decisions with confidence and clarity.