MARQUETTE — The Upper Peninsula Health Plan is in need of volunteer drivers throughout the Upper Peninsula.

According to a news release from UPHP, volunteer drivers play a crucial role in ensuring members receive the medical care they need. UPHP currently serves 55,000 members.

Volunteer drivers provide pickup and drop-off services for transportation, based on availability. Trips can include local runs (one or more appointments near the driver), an all-day trip to another U.P. location or a long run, which could include overnight stays downstate or in Wisconsin.

“UPHP volunteer drivers can commit to as many or as few transports as necessary to complement their schedules,” UPHP said on its website. “When a driver is needed, a transportation coordinator will contact you.”

If a call is missed, volunteer drivers are asked to check their voicemail and return the call to either accept or decline the transport.

“Remember, you are a volunteer and are allowed to turn down a run,” UPHP said.

Volunteer drivers receive benefits for driving, including a driver rate for mileage reimbursement, meal reimbursement, lodging reimbursement for long runs and bridge toll and parking reimbursement with receipts.

UPHP also hosts an annual driver appreciation night for volunteer drivers to enjoy food, prizes and have their voices heard.

“Past driver appreciation nights have led to process improvements and overall driver satisfaction,” the UPHP release said.

Those interested in becoming a volunteer driver are required to go through an application process, which includes a review and agreement to a background check, policies and procedures, filling out a survey and supplying all needed documentation including proof of auto insurance, driver registration and valid driver license.

New drivers go through orientation training and are expected to complete a renewal application yearly.

For more information about becoming a volunteer driver or to start the application process, call UPHP Transportation at 1-800-835-2556.