Strong Demand for SHINE Services During 2026 Medicare Open Enrollment
The 2026 Medicare Open Enrollment period, which officially ended on December 7, saw strong demand for SHINE services across Cape Cod and the Islands.
So far, more than 3,600 appointments have been recorded, though this number is preliminary. SHINE staff will continue entering and verifying appointment data through January 31, and final totals will be released once that process is complete.
SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to help residents understand coverage options and make informed decisions during a complex enrollment process. Each year, many residents return to SHINE and recommend the program to others, reflecting ongoing trust in its services.
“This level of participation shows how vital SHINE is to our communities,” said Kristina Whiton-O’Brien, SHINE Program Manager. “People are seeking clarity, and our trained counselors are delivering it—one appointment at a time.”
Looking ahead, SHINE is now preparing for Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, which runs from January 1 through March 31, 2026, offering additional opportunities for eligible residents to review and adjust their coverage.
Learn more about the SHINE program and available Medicare counseling serviceswww.capecod.gov/SHINE
