DCBS Media Release

August 24, 2000
For More Information:
John Piper, 503-947-7213

Oregon group honored for service to Medicare beneficiaries

The federal Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) has recognized an Oregon coalition of Medicare contractors for outstanding service to the state's 490,000 beneficiaries.

The Oregon Medicare Education Coalition was one of 25 individuals and organizations nationwide to receive the "Beneficiary Services Certificate of Merit." HCFA selected the coalition "for developing dynamic partnerships and creating a Medicare presence in local communities that eliminates barriers and allows beneficiaries to access real people."

Since 1994, the coalition has worked together to educate beneficiaries about the Medicare program. Its goal is to provide accurate, easy-to-understand Medicare information that helps beneficiaries become informed health care consumers.

The coalition conducted 31 free educational seminars for beneficiaries in 27 cities throughout Oregon last year. Coalition members also have provided direct assistance to individual beneficiaries, including insurance counseling, help with claims and coverage issues, and assistance with Medicare rights and complaints.

Members of the coalition are:

• Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA), a volunteer program sponsored by the Oregon Insurance Division.
• Oregon Senior and Disabled Services Division.
• OMPRO, a nonprofit health care quality improvement organization.
• Medicare Northwest, the intermediary for Medicare part A claims.
• Noridian, the carrier for Medicare Part B claims.
• AARP, Oregon state office.