Navigating Medicare Made Easy with SHIP 

Medicare open enrollment is October 15, 2025 through December 7, 2025. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps eligible Mississippians navigate the choices available for joining, switching, or updating their Medicare health plan or prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs in 2025. 

SHIP offers in-person and phone-based counseling to support Medicare-eligible Mississippians in understanding and navigating available coverage options. Even if satisfied with their current plans, individuals should regularly review their coverage and make necessary adjustments to ensure it remains as effective as possible. 

Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance, or other coverage, SHIP personnel are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork, and help with claims and filing appeals. 

According to Mississippi Department of Human Services Executive Director Robert “Bob” Anderson, “Providing Mississippi residents with reliable information is crucial for helping them make informed decisions about their health insurance during open enrollment. The Division of Aging and Adult Services provides community-engaged services and ensures adults with disabilities and their families have the resources they need to live healthy lives.” 

SHIP counselors will provide free, confidential, individual counseling to help beneficiaries find the most comprehensive and cost-effective Medicare health plan and Part D coverage. They can also check if they are eligible for Medicare Savings Programs. Those with Medicare who are having difficulty paying for medical care may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs. These programs can help save money on premiums, prescription drugs, and other health care costs. 

Medicare coverage choices made during open enrollment will take effect on January 1, 2026. 

SHIP is administered through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services. 

For more information about SHIP services and the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, call 1-844-822-4622 or 601-709-0624. Help is available M-F 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or visit Finding Services for Older Adults – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov)