Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP)
Trained HIICAP counselors answer older residents’ questions about Medicare, managed care, medigap, other health and long term care insurance at the Columbia County Office for the Aging (828-4258).

The State Office for the Aging operates a HIICAP Clearinghouse for counselors and consumers. Counseling is also available through a toll-free HIICAP/Medicare Rights Center Hot Line 1-800-333-4114. HIICAP information is also available on the Internet at http://hiicap.state.ny.us. HIICAP/Medicare Rights Center Hot Line (800) 333-4114.
Balance Billing

In New York State, a physician who doesn’t accept Medicare assignment cannot charge more than 5% above the Medicare-approved amount for covered service. (Limit does not apply to home or office visits.) For more information on this law contact the Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) at the Columbia County Office for the Aging (518) 828-4258.

Hospital Patient's Rights

Upon admission to the hospital, a patient should receive a copy of the Hospital Patient’s Bill of Rights. This booklet is designed to help you understand what rights you have during your hospitalization regarding treatment and care. For information on rights and how to appeal a hospital decision, call New York StateWide Senior Action Council at 1-800-333-4374.
Island Peer Review Organization (IPRO)

IPRO is the designated agency identifying quality health care for Medicare and Medicaid programs. IPRO provides information about patient’s rights when hospitalized, medical records review for quality of care and other information. IPRO Hot Line (800) 331-7767.