Volunteers are the heart and soul of the SMP program.
From administrative and management support to community outreach and one-on-one counseling, the SMP programs capitalize on the wealth of experience and expertise that seniors and other volunteers have to offer.
The story behind the success of the SMP program.
Thousands of volunteers across the country have formed a dedicated army of community volunteers who are responsible for recouping more than $22 million dollars last year alone. In 2003, more than 7,500 volunteers joined the fight against health care fraud and waste, joining the more than 34,000 seasoned volunteers that have been involved since the inception of the program. Nearly 500,000 seniors participated in training and outreach sessions conducted by both new and veteran volunteers.
Volunteers also play a big role in organizing press events and other community education activities like health fairs- coming in contact with millions more through these efforts. Over the past four years the Medicare error payment rate has been cut in half due in part to the efforts of the SMP volunteers, saving billions. Yet, according to the FBI, fraud and abuse continue to cost the government and private health insurers upwards of $95 billion a year. The Medicare & Medicaid programs combined lose more than $23 billion dollars each year.
One person can make a difference!
No one could accomplish all this alone. At a minimum, you can become an advocate for your own health care. View our calendar of events to find a training session or workshop in your area or download the personal health care journal from the list of Related Links below.
If you are up to the challenge, consider volunteering your time and expertise to support the fight against fraud and abuse. SMP programs are in virtually every state, Guam, Puerto Rico the Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia. Volunteers come from all walks of life and from every section of the country. The future integrity and quality of the health care system depends upon you. Join the effort to help save our precious health care dollars for the care you and your loved ones may some day need.
