Poweshiek volunteers named ‘Best in State’

GRINNELL — Volunteers at two Senior Health Insurance Information Program and Senior Medicare Patrol Sponsor Sites have been recognized as Best in State at helping clients find financial assistance to cover Medicare costs and avoiding Medicare fraud, scams and abuse.

Awards were presented to UnityPoint Health-Grinnell Regional Medical Center and Lucas County Health Center.

“The hardworking women in Poweshiek County that donate their time and countless hours to the SHIIP Program 100% deserve this award,” said Brooke Holder, public health manager.

“Our counselors, Pat, Jan and Kathy, and schedulers, Barb and Janet, volunteer year-round to ensure that the residents of Poweshiek County have the knowledge and accessibility to the correct information for their health care coverage. I am beyond proud of their hard work and dedication to this cause.”

The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Award celebrates a site where volunteers prioritize screening clients about their income and assets to identify eligibility for financial assistance covering Part B premiums and drug costs.

It also acknowledges a site for taking the extra time to talk with clients to understand their unique financial situations, and ensure they get support completing applications for assistance.

At Grinnell Regional, GRMC Kathy Szary, Patricia Thompson and Jan Phelps help clients who need it most.

"We have a great team at the Grinnell site who work tirelessly to ensure that our clients’ needs are met and checking to see if they are eligible for financial assistance is an important component of our work,” said Kathy Szary.

Medicare can be difficult to navigate, and the Poweshiek County SHIIP-SMP counselors are available year-round to answer questions. Call 641-236-2588 and leave a message to request an appointment or ask questions.