Seniors Health Insurance in Buncombe and Henderson Counties
What Is NC SHIIP?
The North Carolina Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (NC SHIIP) provides free, unbiased, one-on-one counseling and education about Medicare and related insurance topics to beneficiaries and their caregivers. NC SHIIP services are provided through local partner agencies that coordinate counseling and outreach. NC SHIIP counselors help people understand:
Medicare Parts A, B, C (Medicare Advantage), and D (prescription drug plans)
How to compare and choose plans each year
Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) insurance
Cost-saving programs such as Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs
How to recognize and report billing errors, fraud, waste, and abuse through the North Carolina Senior Medicare Patrol (NCSMP)
NC SHIIP for Buncombe County and Henderson County
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County (COAbc) serves both Buncombe County and Henderson County residents, offering free, unbiased Medicare counseling under the NC SHIIP program. Services include:
Individual Medicare counseling appointments with a certified SHIIP counselor
Help with choosing or comparing Medicare Advantage plans, Part D drug plans, and supplemental plans
Assistance applying for cost-saving programs, such as Extra Help or subsidy programs
Free educational classes on Medicare topics for beneficiaries and caregivers
Counseling is available by appointment. COAbc also provides community education classes and resources tailored for people new to Medicare or considering changes during enrollment periods.
How to Schedule a SHIIP Appointment
- Online Request Form
The best option is to visit the Council on Aging’s Medicare Health Insurance page and fill out the “Request a Medicare Counseling Appointment” form, also linked here. A staff member will contact you to set up your counseling time. - By Phone
Call (828) 277-8288, extension 1310 and ask for SHIIP Medicare counseling and appointment scheduling. Office hours are typically Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
What to Expect During Your NC SHIIP Appointment:
Compare Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans.
Get help understanding Plan costs and benefits.
Learn about Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help (for prescription costs).
Ask questions about enrollment timelines and deadlines.
Service Area and Focus
Because Medicare rules and plan offerings change frequently and because each beneficiary’s situation is different, having local, trained SHIIP counselors is a valuable resource in Western North Carolina, where beneficiaries often prefer in-person support and community-based assistance. The Council on Aging of Buncombe County’s SHIIP program is a trusted local access point for Medicare information, advocacy, and education, helping people make informed decisions during key times such as initial enrollment and Annual Enrollment Periods.
For additional regional agencies, please visit the Medicare Help page.