The N.C. Department of Insurance celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) by proclaiming Sept. 19 as "SHIIP Day."

"While I'm proud of all the work that the Department's different divisions do to help the citizens of our state, I'm particularly proud of SHIIP today on its 20th anniversary," state Insurance Commissioner Jim Long said. "Whether it's helping seniors understand their Medicare summary notices, guiding adult children through Medicare supplemental policies or explaining the various prescription drug plans associated with Part D, SHIIP's staff and volunteers have helped millions of North Carolinians understand the confusing Medicare and Medicaid systems."

SHIIP is a division of the Department of Insurance dedicated to helping North Carolina's 1.3 million Medicare beneficiaries understand the often confusing Medicare system.

Since its creation in 1986, SHIIP has relied on its corps of volunteers, which has grown to include more than 900 in all 100 counties in North Carolina. SHIIP also serves as a model for similar programs nationwide.

SHIIP volunteers are available across the state for personal counseling sessions where citizens will receive free, objective information about Medicare, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, Medicare supplements, Medicare managed care and long-term care insurance.

For answers to your questions about Medicare or other senior insurance issues, interested persons can call SHIIP toll-free at (800) 443-9354 or visit SHIIP online at www.ncshiip. com.

Information is also available through the Moore County Department of Aging at 947-2881.