Washington seniors have more than just Medicare on their minds this week. It's time to celebrate the volunteer heroes of the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA). SHIBA's remarkable 45-year service in guiding the 65-and-up crowd through the healthcare labyrinth has not gone unnoticed, with Gov. Jay Inslee stepping up to declare this week, May 19–25, as SHIBA Volunteer Recognition Week, according to a proclamation gleaning attention for its unwavering dedication to Medicare beneficiaries.

The region's silver-haired population has spiked by 63% over the last decade, with now more than 17% of Washingtonians taking place in the senior citizen demographic. As the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) grapples with a surge in queries regarding Medicare and health coverage, the SHIBA program stands out for its consistent commitment to serving the elderly, as reported by the Commissioner's Eye On Insurance.

Founded by a group of civic-minded volunteers back in 1976 and officially endorsed by then-insurance commissioner Dick Marquardt in 1979, SHIBA's genesis was rooted in the realization that seniors were in dire need of navigational aid through the complex health insurance system. Today, SHIBA remains steadfast in its mission—to offer free, unbiased, compassionate, and confidential counseling services to Medicare beneficiaries. They handle everything from enrollment guidance and prescription drug program access to protection against and reporting of fraud, ensuring that those most in need are neither lost nor exploited.

SHIBA's influence was so significant that it spurred the federal government, in 1990, to establish the national State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, expanding this crucial support system across all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, Guam, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. SHIBA volunteers—a cornerstone of the program—are lauded for their patient and crucial role in lifting the fog of insurance jargon and helping their peers save money on health insurance and select optimal coverage. According to the Commissioner's Eye On Insurance, "These compassionate individuals, often seniors themselves, play a pivotal role in supporting their communities."

Marking its 45th year, SHIBA continues to stand as a testament to community service and volunteerism, with its volunteers finding deep meaning and satisfaction in their efforts.