Friday, April 25, 2025
4/25/2025
Puerto Rico SHIP Program (STATE HEALTH INSURANCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM) - The Puerto Rico State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased, and personalized assistance to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. Over the next five years, the program will focus on educating and empowering beneficiaries to make informed health insurance decisions. Through one-on-one counseling, group outreach events, and a comprehensive statewide media campaign, the program will raise awareness of Medicare benefits and enrollment processes. Key goals include improving access to information for underserved populations, including rural residents, individuals with disabilities, and non-English speakers. The program will recruit and train a diverse team of volunteers and staff, ensuring they are equipped with up-to-date knowledge about Medicare policies, benefits, and enrollment options. Special emphasis will be placed on reaching hard-to-reach populations and addressing their unique challenges, such as language barriers and limited transportation options. The program will establish additional counseling stations across Puerto Rico, deliver educational materials in Spanish, and utilize digital platforms, including social media, to expand its reach. By partnering with community organizations, senior centers, and local agencies, the Puerto Rico SHIP will ensure beneficiaries receive the support they need to navigate the complexities of Medicare. Expected outcomes include increased public awareness of Medicare benefits, improved beneficiary satisfaction, and greater access to personalized counseling services. These efforts will enhance the quality of life for Medicare beneficiaries in Puerto Rico, helping them optimize their healthcare coverage and access preventive services.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).