Glossary · Programs
What is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)?
A SHIP is a state program, funded in part by the federal government, that gives free local health coverage counseling to people with Medicare.
Definition and figures from HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
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SHIP: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | HealthCare.gov glossary: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) |
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What does SHIP mean in health insurance?
A SHIP is a state program, funded in part by the federal government, that gives free local health coverage counseling to people with Medicare.