I&A INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE

Our Information and Assistance Program is designed to link people in need with the appropriate services for their unique situation.  Through state certified technicians, a database of service providers and a statewide toll-free phone service the I&A system can provide comprehensive and current local resources such as: Social and health services, Medicare assistance, Legal services, Utilities assistance, Meal services, In-home services, Transportation, Caregiving options, Volunteering opportunities and more.

S.H.I.P. – State Health Insurance Assistance Program

Lifespan Respite ProgrThe S.H.I.P. program is designed to bring one-on-one counseling to older and disabled Montanans in their hometowns. The counseling will help senior citizens understand Medicare and Medicaid as well as private insurance and Long-Term Care Insurance. This counseling program is independent. No one will try to sell you any type of insurance. There is no charge for this service. The S.H.I.P. program will help you answer these important questions.

1. How do I decide if I need Medicare Supplement Insurance?
2. What medical services are covered by Medicare?
3. What medical services are covered by Medicaid?
   

SMP Senior Medicare Patrol

Statewide, peer volunteers give public presentations or provide one-to-one assistance to educate Medicare consumers in the areas of waste, fraud and abuse. The volunteers use AIMS tools to teach seniors how to understand their Medicare Summary Notices and to compare them with other health care bills to determine if the service was received, and that the dates of service match the beneficiary’s health journal log. This service is designed to curb the $11.6 billion dollars lost in our country each year to waste, fraud and abuse. If you or a family member see questionable charges from providers on your Medicare Summary Notice, please call 1.800.551.3191 to reach an AIMS volunteer in your area. AIMS volunteers are available for phone consultations or will come to your home to assist you with your questions concerning questionable provider charges to Medicare.

Resource Emergency Outreach Coordinator

Advocate for the needs and rights of disabled, Veterans or older adults within the community and work towards addressing any gaps in services or support. Provide support and assistance during emergencies or crisis situations, ensuring that disabled, Veterans or older adults have access to necessary resources and assistance.
Resource: Coordinator to Program Contact WMAS

VDC Veteran Directed Care Program

Veteran Directed Care Program gives Veterans of all ages the opportunity to receive the Home and Community Based Services they need in a consumer-directed way. This program is for Veterans who need personal care services and help with activities of daily living.

Western Montana Community Transportation Program

Our specialized transportation service is here to assist the elderly, disabled, and veterans in accessing important places such as grocery stores, medical appointments, and more. With our professional and caring drivers, you can trust that you or your loved ones will reach their destination safely and comfortably.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Long-term care Ombudsmen are advocates for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsmen provide information about how to find a facility and what to do to get quality care. They are trained to resolve problems. If you want, the Ombudsman can assist you with complaints. However, unless you give the Ombudsman permission to share your concerns, these matters are kept confidential. Under the federal Older Americans Act, every state is required to have an Ombudsman Program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long-term care system.

Tonies@area6aginKayg@area6aging.org