What we do
Our program's success is built on a statewide network of certified Medicare counselors who volunteer their time. Counselors help people in their community understand their Medicare insurance choices and their rights. They do this by offering one-on-one counseling, classes, and referrals.
Counselors report to a volunteer coordinator in their sponsoring organization.
Good counselors
- Enjoy helping others
- Are reliable, empathetic, patient, and kind
- Communicate well
- Protect client confidentiality
- Have no conflict of interest
- Want to provide SHIBA services
- Have computer skills or are willing to learn
- Work well alone and in a team
Duties
- Complete the process to become a SHIBA counselor. This includes an application, screening, training, and internship. Counselors maintain certification by annually completing 12 continuing education hours.
- Maintain confidentiality of client information.
- Provide one-on-one health insurance assistance at a sponsor site, in clients' homes, or by phone.
- Evaluate clients' resources and health care or health insurance needs.
- Complete Client Contact forms online.
- Refer clients to other resources as needed.
Get started
The first step to becoming a SHIBA counselor is to complete the application. You can do this online using the form below. You can also download
a printable version of the application and mail it to:
Oregon SHIBA
500 Summer St NE, E-12
Salem, OR 97301
After reviewing your application, a SHIBA staff member will contact you. You should receive a reply within five to seven business days. For more information before completing the application, email shiba.oregon@odhs.oregon.gov.