About SHINE

Each state within the United States and its territories (American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianna Islands, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands) has an operational health insurance counseling and assistance program. These are commonly referred to as SHIP, state health insurance programs. SHIP program services are offered through a network of volunteers, and generally have a headquarters established within either the Department of Aging or the Department of Insurance.

In Florida, the program is known as SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) and is housed within the Department of Elder Affairs. To review an informational fact sheet about SHINE, click here. To find out more about becoming a SHINE Volunteer, click here.

Mission Statement

SHINE empowers Florida’s seniors and their representatives to reach informed decisions regarding health insurance, long-term care planning and prescription assistance by offering individual counseling and group presentations. These free and unbiased services are provided through a network of volunteers who maintain and respect the privacy and personal needs of all served.