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FAQs about volunteering for Salem Health

Have questions about becoming a volunteer? Here are some of our most frequently asked questions.

 


What exactly will I be asked to do?

Once you interview and are accepted to serve, we work to find a placement that matches your skills and our needs. When you start as a volunteer, we train you to the role expectations (more than 40 different options). Our trainers ensure you are ready to serve!

How soon can I start volunteering?

We strive to get every person who completes their application and interview and is accepted to start volunteering within three weeks. Much of that depends on you completing our onboarding requirements, which we discuss in more detail during your interview. 

Can I get a job after volunteering?

Volunteering should not be considered an avenue to employment. Volunteering is a perfect way to explore your interest in the health care field and learn more about what to expect. A few volunteers have become employees after serving with us. If you're looking for a job opportunity, check out our career opportunities.

Will I be with patients on my volunteer shift?

It depends on your placement. A good example would be student volunteers. They serve in a variety of areas each day. Some days they might deliver flowers or share activity cart items where they would see patients. On other days they help staff with projects that are needed for excellent patient care and not with the patients.

Can I volunteer more than one day a week?

Yes, if serving more than one day a week suits your lifestyle, we're happy to discuss options. We’re proud to offer flexible volunteer hours.

How do I know if I'll be a good fit for Salem Health?

One of Salem Health’s core tenets is Care with Respect. This means treating our patients the way we want to be treated. It includes family and fellow staff, and it’s what you can expect. We maintain an inclusive and equitable environment honoring diversity and inclusion. We’re committed to facilitating a welcoming environment for everyone while celebrating and learning from our differences.

Will I make a real impact?

All volunteer roles help patients, visitors, staff and/or fellow volunteers. The Connection volunteers complete an average of 170 rides per month throughout Polk County, and our emergency department volunteers see and help more than 150 patients and their families daily. Other volunteers know that packets, charts and office duties are fundamental, and everyone needs help maneuvering the campus. Everyone works together to keep the organization rolling!

Can I hold babies and newborns?

We do have placements for baby cuddling. To serve with our most vulnerable little ones, you must be a volunteer in good standing for a minimum of one year before being considered for the role.

Do I have to provide proof of a COVID vaccine?

This is not needed at this time. Salem Health is a place where the safety of our patients and staff means everything to us. We take all safety precautions seriously and as a volunteer you will learn and adhere to our high hospital standards. Currently we do not require proof of COVID or mask expectations. Flu immunization will be discussed on October of each year.

Can I get a position as an intern?

We do not offer internships at this time.      

Will volunteering give me hands-on experience to help with my health care degree?

Volunteers do not receive hands-on medical experience and are not permitted to perform any clinical duties — including blood pressure and temperature checks, etc. 

We look forward to seeing your application and can answer other questions you have during the interview process.

 

 

 

Interested in job shadowing?

If you're interested in job shadowing for a health care career, check out our Career Exploration Program. Job shadowing is a three-hour experience with a health care professional. This is also NOT a hands-on experience. It is designed to help you learn more about health care roles.