Vermont SMP is part of a national program funded by the US Administration on Aging. Nationally, SMP focuses on the recruitment and training of retired seniors, and to educate and encourage Medicare beneficiaries to be active partners in their health care decisions and utilization. Currently there are 57 SMP Projects in the United States and Puerto Rico.

Vermont SMP helps Medicare beneficiaries to have a greater understanding of their Medicare rights, benefits and responsibilities. This understanding enables beneficiaries to identify and address billing errors and any indication of Medicare fraud and abuse.

Vermont SMP has partnered with the five Area Agencies on Aging where part-time Vermont SMP Coordinators are based. Our efforts are closely integrated with the toll free senior helpline, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), Vermont National Retired Senior Service Corps, and Lyric Theatre. Vermont SMP trains both staff and volunteers to work on this project in a variety of capacities including: educators, event organizers, Advisory Council and committees, counselors, outreach and administrative. We also depend on the media to raise the public’s awareness of both Medicare benefits and to promote the Vermont SMP. We continue to seek help from folks like you. If you would like more information about becoming a Vermont SMP Volunteer, contact Anita Hoy by, e-mail: [email protected] or telephone 802/229-4731.

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In Vermont, if you or someone you know has located a Medicare error or has been a victim of a Medicare scam please contact Vermont SMP toll-free at: 1-888-865-2683 or speak with SHIP at: 1-800-642-5119.

COVE wants to extend its appreciation to the North County Federal Credit Union for their generosity and support provided to the Vermont SMP. We further acknowledge North County Federal Credit Union’s appreciation of Vermont SMP who "provides our at-risk neighbors with the skills and knowledge that they need to avoid becoming victims."

No Wonder You're Dizzy! can be watched online at http://www.cctv.org/node/91937