Hawaii SHIP: Free Medicare Counseling for Seniors and Families
What Hawaii SHIP Does
Hawaii's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling through the Executive Office on Aging. Certified counselors help seniors and their families understand Medicare coverage options, compare plans, and get enrollment support.
SHIP counselors are not insurance agents. They provide non-commercial advice and do not sell plans or collect commissions.
The service is available on every island:
- Oahu: (808) 586-7299
- Neighbor Islands toll-free: 1-888-875-9229
What SHIP Can Help With
SHIP counselors can assess coverage needs, determine eligibility for programs, compare plan options, and provide enrollment support. They can also explain Part D options and D-SNP alignment.
For families considering a D-SNP, SHIP can help explain which FIDE SNP options are aligned with their QUEST Integration health plan.
Med-QUEST Applications
SHIP can help screen for eligibility, but does not assemble or track application packets for families. Med-QUEST handles eligibility determinations and MSP applications. For application forms, submission options, or case status, contact Med-QUEST at 1-800-316-8005. Its 45-day processing standard runs from receipt of a signed application.
SHIP has a small staff supported by volunteers, and appointments can be delayed by several weeks during peak periods.
Free Download
Get the Hawaii — Medicare Savings Program Eligibility Checklist
Everything in this article as a printable checklist — plus action plans and reference guides you can start using today.
Other Free Resources in Hawaii
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) offer broader senior services including referrals for home care, transportation, and Meals on Wheels. Hawaii ADRC can be reached at hawaiiadrc.org or (808) 643-ADRC (2372); Aloha United Way can also be reached by dialing 2-1-1.
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii (808-536-4302) provides legal representation for contested Med-QUEST denials and fair hearing appeals. Contact them to ask whether they can help with your situation.
Generations Magazine, available free at Zippy's and Times Supermarket locations across the islands, publishes practical articles on senior benefits and local service directories.
Our Hawaii Medicare Savings Programs & Extra Help Guide picks up where SHIP leaves off — it provides the complete application walkthrough with Hawaii-specific forms, a document checklist organized by what Med-QUEST actually verifies, and printable planning tools so you can move from "probably eligible" to an approved application without hiring an elder law attorney.
Get Your Free Hawaii — Medicare Savings Program Eligibility Checklist
Download the Hawaii — Medicare Savings Program Eligibility Checklist — a printable guide with checklists, scripts, and action plans you can start using today.