Frequently Asked Questions

 
Do you have any volunteer opportunities at UVa Health System?

Yes, many exciting volunteer opportunities exist for adult, high school and college student volunteers. Please consult this web site to learn more.  Volunteer Services can be reached at (434) 924-5251. 

What are the Standard Requirements to Volunteer at UVa Health System?

Patient and volunteer safety are hallmarks of our volunteer program.  Our start-up process ensures that volunteers have a thorough, consistent screening and training process which answers your questions and leads to a positive volunteer experience.

You need to:

  • Interview with Volunteer Services staff.
  • Fill out an Application Form
  • Provide two references.
  • Be at least 18 years of age. (Except Junior Volunteers)
  • Have had chicken pox or chicken pox vaccine
  • Undergo a two-part screening for TB, which is provided free by UVa Employee Health.
  • Show documentation of immunizations and meet the hospital's immunization requirements
  • Complete Volunteer Orientation, including HIPAA, Infection Control, Fire & Safety and more.
  • Sign an authorization for a Criminal History background check.
  • Obtain a Health System ID Badge.
  • Additional requirements may apply to specific programs

 How long does the application process take before I can actually start
 volunteering?

 The application process takes approximately one month from start to finish.

 What Benefits do UVa Health System Volunteers Enjoy?

  • The satisfaction of knowing you helped someone
  • Job skill development
  • Free parking (community volunteers only)
  • Free ride on Charlottesville and UVa buses
  • Personal satisfaction from helping others
  • Free membership in the UVa Hospital Auxiliary
  • Appreciation gifts and events
  • Reference letters
  • Free TB screening
  • Free Flu Shots
  • Award pins
  • Gift Shop discount
  • Eligible to participate in UVa Employee Travel Program

 Is there a minimum amount of time that I need to commit to?

Most volunteer roles require a volunteer to commit to at least 3 hours per week,  some require less and some more hours.  We ask for a 6 month - 1 year commitment.  If you are unable to make a weekly commitment, opportunities are available to train as a substitute. Volunteers are also needed for one-day events. 

 Can I be placed in the volunteer program of my choice?

Yes, depending upon your skills and our needs. We strive to meet your wishes as closely as possible, and to look for a good "fit."

 What if I travel sometimes?

That's OK.  If you need to miss a shift because you are out of town or become ill, notify the Volunteer Office as soon as you can.  We may need to find a substitute to fill your role. 

 Can I volunteer if I'm not 18? 

Yes, there is a summer program for high school students aged 14-17.  The 8-week Junior Volunteer program gives students insight into the healthcare field.  Please call the Volunteer Office at (434) 924-5251 to put your name on the notification list to learn the date of the JV Information Session.  Applications are typically due at the end of March for the following summer.

 I work full-time. Do you have any programs during the evening or on the
 weekend?

Yes, we do have several programs that offer evening and weekend opportunities. Contact Volunteer Services for the current list.

 I'm a UVa Student.  Can I be a UVa volunteer?

Yes, we have a large volunteer program for UVa undergraduates.  Working with Madison House, UVa's Office of Volunteer Community Service, we offer opportunities  through the Medical Services Program, the Rehabilitation Services Program, the Daycare Program and the Outreach Services Program. All UVa undergrads must sign up through Madison House when classes begin in the fall. Madison House Medical Services Program.

 Can I volunteer just for the summer?

Yes.  A Summer Volunteer is someone whose commitment begins and ends in the summer months -- May 1 through August 31.  College students, teachers, and others over age 18 with summer availability are invited to join us.

(Volunteers who are interested in a longer-term assignment -- 6 months or more -- are not considered Summer Volunteers, even if they begin in the summer months.)
Please view the webpage on Summer Program.

 Are there short-term opportunities?

Screening and training requirements are numerous and time consuming for the volunteer and the hospital.  Therefore, each program asks for a minimum of a 6 month time commitment.  There are occasionally special one-day events that need volunteer support.  Typically these do not involve patient contact.

 Will I be able to shadow a Doctor and or have a clinical experience?

No. We do not offer shadowing or clinical experiences through the volunteer office.  As a volunteer you will be able to learn a lot about the hospital environment and the roles of different healthcare professionals in caring for patients. Volunteers never give medical care.

 What do I do about parking?

Community volunteers receive free parking privileges when they're here for their assignment. Validated parking passes must be presented to the parking attendant.  Sorry, parking is not available for UVa student volunteers, who are asked to bus, bike or walk.

 What about training?

After attending General Orientation, position specific training comes next.  You'll receive a written position description and training geared specifically to the job you'll be doing. You'll participate in training sessions with an experienced volunteer, or work one-on-one with the program coordinator or other staff. You'll discuss the tasks you'll be doing, and work through a Training Checklist for the specific role you are filling.

 Is there a dress code?

Yes. Volunteers follow the same dress code as employees.  Volunteers are not allowed to wear blue jeans, shorts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, open toe shoes, or t-shirts.  No halter tops or bare midriffs. Some patient areas have additional dress code requirements.  All volunteers must wear their hospital ID badge while on duty.  If a uniform is required for your role, it will be provided to you.  Uniforms are worn over the volunteer's street clothes.

 If I volunteer will I get a job at the hospital?

Volunteering at the hospital does not guarantee employment, however, Volunteer Services staff are happy to serve as references for successful volunteers who apply for employment with the UVa Health System.