HICAP Volunteer Counselor Description

Job Summary

The HICAP Volunteer Counselor assists Medicare beneficiaries on Medicare and related health insurance issues. Through one-on-one counseling and informal advocacy, HICAP Volunteer Counselors support the independence of people making choices that affect their health and financial well-being.

Counseling: Provide individual counseling to Medicare beneficiaries regarding Medicare billing and claims problems, Medicare supplemental insurance, Medicare HMOs and other managed care options, long term care insurance and other private health insurance issues.

Advocacy: Ensure that client's rights under Medicare and related health insurance benefits are upheld and make referrals to professional staff when appropriate.

Record Keeping: Complete client intake forms accurately and submit them monthly to the Program Manager.

Training: Attend regular HICAP-sponsored trainings for a minimum of twelve hours of continuing education per year.

Program Publicity: Promote awareness of HICAP services in the local community.

Counselor Qualifications:

• Patience, good listening and analytical skills, desire for detailed work and enjoyment in working with older people.
• Interest in and aptitude for work with Medicare and health insurance issues and ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
• Willingness to comply with all policies and administrative procedures established by HICAP and to abide by a contract that assures client confidentiality.
• Ability to be objective and unbiased and to refrain from recommending specific health insurance plans.
• Willingness to volunteer 10-12 hours per month. This includes counseling hours and continuing education and travel. Attendance at the initial 30-hour and at the bi-monthly follow-up trainings is mandatory. Must be able to make at least a one-year commitment.

Individuals who sell insurance, or who receive compensation or other financial gain from insurers will not be considered for HICAP Volunteer Counselor positions.

Interested? Download the application form!