SHINE Program
The SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Everyone) Program provides health insurance information, assistance, and counseling to Medicare beneficiaries of all ages and others who have questions about insurance and public benefit programs.
SHINE Program staff and a network of certified volunteer counselors provide information about Medicare, Medigap, Medicare Advantage Plans, MassHealth, prescription drug programs, and other health assistance programs. Medicare plans change every year. Review your options…SHINE Can Help!
Counseling and assistance is provided free of charge.
You can contact your local Senior Center or the HESSCO office to request to speak to a SHINE Counselor (781) 784-4944.
2025 Updates
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15th to December 7th. This is your chance to look over your coverage and decide if you need to enroll in a new plan. In Massachusetts, The SHINE Program assists older adults and individuals with disabilities in understanding their Medicare and MassHealth benefits and other health insurance options. SHINE counselors provide accurate, unbiased, and up-to-date information about Medicare health care options. This video is a brief overview of Medicare and how to use the Medicare Plan Finder to review Medicare Advantage Plans or Medicare Part D plans available in your area.
HESSCO’s SHINE office is experiencing an overwhelming number of calls during this Open Enrollment period and is placing a temporary hold on accepting new voice message calls. If you need immediate Medicare assistance, please contact Medicare directly at 800-633-4227.