How to Get Free SHINE Medicare Counseling in Highlands County
Talk with a free, unbiased Medicare counselor before changing coverage or responding to a Medicare notice.
Start here
Call the Senior Connection Center at 800-336-2226 and ask for SHINE counseling. Have the Medicare card, plan information, medication list, preferred pharmacies, and the complete notice or bill ready.
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; appointments may be required
Request free SHINE counselingWhat to have ready
- Highlands County address and a safe callback number
- A one-sentence description of the need and what changed
- Any notice, application, denial, bill, or deadline involved
- Language, mobility, communication, and accommodation needs
Words you can use
“I live in Highlands County and need unbiased Medicare counseling about [notice, appeal, cost, or plan choice]. The deadline is [date]. What appointment is available and what should I have ready?”
Steps in order
- 1
Call or use the official intake route and lead with the immediate need.
- 2
Ask what eligibility, documents, assessment, and current funding or capacity apply.
- 3
Record the staff name, reference number, next action, and follow-up date.
- 4
Use the listed backup route if the program is closed, full, or not the correct door.
If the first answer is no or wait
Availability, funding, eligibility, and wait times can change. Ask for the reason in writing when possible, preserve every deadline, and dial 211 or call Highlands County at 863-402-6500 to locate another current route.
Official sources
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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