VI SHIP switches to appointments through early December

Starting today, the Virgin Islands State Health Insurance Assistance Program will accept clients only by appointment through December 7, Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach said.

The temporary shift responds to a surge in demand during the annual open enrollment period, when Medicare beneficiaries can sign up for Medicare Part D coverage or adjust their existing prescription drug plans.

Roach explained that the appointment system allows counselors to give each person the focused attention they need. "We want to make sure everyone gets the help they need without long waits. This appointment-only policy will help the VI SHIP team to provide personalized service to our community," he said.

VI SHIP offers free counseling to non-Government of the Virgin Islands retiree Medicare beneficiaries across the territory. Regular walk-in service resumes December 8.

People in the St. Thomas-St. John District can book appointments by calling 340-774-2991, extension 4507. St. Croix residents should dial 340-773-6449, extension 3151.