Connecting older Mississippians to the services they need.
Finding the right services and supports to meet your needs as you get older can feel overwhelming.
Basics
The resources below can connect you with experts who can help you:
- Identify services that may be helpful to you
- Answer health insurance questions
- Locate services available in your community
- Make informed decisions regarding long-term services and support.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance or other coverage, SHIP volunteers are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork and help with claims and filing appeals.
SHIP volunteers help older Mississippians and caregivers understand Medicare benefits; organize doctor and hospital bills; file Medicare appeals; review Medicare Supplemental Insurance; evaluate Medicare+ Choice or Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) options; understand Medicaid eligibility, and explore long-term care options.
Anyone can get free help through SHIP – their help is available regardless of income. Plus, their help is free, un-biased, and confidential.
Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Network
MAC Centers help older people and people with disabilities, along with their families and representatives, find long-term care services and supports to keep them living well and independently.
Anyone can call or visit a MAC Center – their help is available regardless of income. Plus, their help is free, un-biased, and confidential.
Transition to Community Referral
When a long-term care resident expresses interest in transitioning back to living in the community, nursing facility staff complete a Transition to Community Referral to get the resident connected to available community services that can help them make a smooth transition. For more information about the Transition to Community Referral Program, contact the MAC Center.
Legal Assistance and Advocacy Services
Legal assistance and advocacy services are available to older adults to help them protect their rights, secure benefits, and promote a higher quality of life. Services include:
- Referrals for legal assistance for older persons who need legal advice, a consultation and/or representation.
- Elder abuse prevention activities and public information programs that focus on issues to help prevent abuse, fraud, and exploitation.
State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
For residents in long-term care facilities, the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman provides services that protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents through leadership, oversight, and monitoring.
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