Volunteering is a significant aspect of giving back to the community and is often required for graduation. This article will discuss whether high schoolers can volunteer at a hospital.
Volunteering at a hospital can be a rewarding experience for high school students. It allows them to give back to their community and help those in need. Plus, it provides an opportunity for them to learn about the healthcare field and gain valuable experience that can benefit their future careers.
However, it is essential for high school students to be aware of the policies and requirements for volunteering at a hospital and to make sure that they are ready for the challenges and responsibilities that come with this type of volunteering.
The Hospital Volunteer Process.
I am sure you are filled with questions. Below, you will find out what you need to know before you start, including policies, requirements, and the responsibilities you will be taking on. When high schoolers volunteer at a hospital, they make a difference in the community and gain experience.
Keep in mind that hospitals differ from one to another. Therefore, some requirements may be enforced and others not so much. For the most part, patients must submit an application, complete forms, participate in an interview, get tested, undergo orientation, and get a background check.
In addition, hospitals may require that high schoolers wear proper uniforms when volunteering. Moreover, they might charge you a slight fee to give you a pair.
Students should start by researching hospitals in their area that offer volunteering opportunities for high school students. This may include calling or visiting the hospital’s website to inquire about their volunteer program.
Once you find a hospital to volunteer in, apply for the hospital’s volunteer program. This may require you to provide personal information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address, as well as a resume and a reference.
Now you can complete any necessary paperwork and attend a volunteer orientation. Paperwork includes a background check, vaccination records, and other forms.
Furthermore, you may be required to attend training sessions. It often includes training on infection control, patient privacy, and hospital policies and procedures.
After you are accepted, you can start volunteering at the hospital according to the schedule agreed upon with the volunteer coordinator. Note that hospitals may have different requirements and processes for volunteering, so it is best to contact the hospital directly to find out more specific information.
Age Requirement
The age requirement for volunteering at a hospital may vary depending on the hospital and the specific volunteer program. Some hospitals may allow high school students as young as 14 or 15 to volunteer, while others may require volunteers to be at least 16 or 18 years old.
Regardless of age requirements, students should not leave their volunteering hours for the last minute. For more information on how to start preparing for college in 9th grade– complete guide, check out my guide.
It is best to contact the hospital directly to find out their specific age requirements for volunteering. In addition to the age requirement, hospitals may have other requirements for volunteers, such as a minimum number of hours per week, a minimum commitment period, and a satisfactory attendance record.
Tasks And Duties
The duties of high school students as hospital volunteers may vary depending on the hospital and the specific volunteer program. Some typical duties that high school students may be responsible for as hospital volunteers include mail, supplies, or assisting callers.
The majority of hospitals do not allow students to choose their assigned job. You might be providing customer service to patients, visitors, and staff. Or stuck running errands within the hospital.
A rewarding job is providing companionship to patients and delivering mail and flowers. It is also possible that you will assist with administrative tasks, such as answering phones and filing paperwork.
Furthermore, other jobs can help prepare students for the world of medicine. A job like supporting healthcare professionals by helping with patient transport or restocking supplies can be great inside the career. Nevertheless, note that hospital volunteers are not allowed to perform any medical tasks or duties that require a healthcare license.
Hours Put In
The number of hours you volunteer at a hospital may vary depending on the hospital and the specific volunteer program.
Some hospitals may require volunteers to commit to a certain number of hours per week or month, while others may be more flexible and allow volunteers to choose their own schedules.
Most hospital programs may expect volunteers to commit to at least a few hours per week, as this allows them to build relationships with patients and make a meaningful contribution to the hospital. However, the hours may vary depending on the hospital’s needs and the volunteer’s availability.
Benefits Of Hospital Volunteering
There are many benefits to high school students volunteering at a hospital. Though many students do it for community hours, it can be advantageous.
Building Resume Skills
Hospital volunteering is a great way for high school students to build valuable skills that can be included in their resumes, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills can be attractive to employers and can help students stand out in the job market.
Gaining Valuable Experience
Volunteering at a hospital allows high school students to get a firsthand look at the healthcare field and learn about healthcare professionals’ different roles and responsibilities.
This can be beneficial for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, as it gives them an opportunity to see if it is the right fit for them and develop skills and knowledge that can be valuable in their future careers.
Learning About The Healthcare Field
This opportunity allows high school students to learn about the healthcare field hands-on. This can be helpful for students considering pursuing a career in healthcare, as it will enable them to better understand what the occupation involves and what types of jobs are available.
Making A Difference
When high schoolers volunteer at a hospital, they give back to their community and help those in need. This can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, as it allows students to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Meeting New People
Volunteers meet and work with diverse people, including patients, visitors, staff, and other volunteers. This can be an excellent opportunity for students to make new friends and connections.
Final Thoughts
If high schoolers volunteer at a hospital, not only will they gain community hours and experiences for their resumes, but they will be serving their community.
Giving back to the people, being patient, kind, generous, and uplifting patients is a fantastic way to spend your time. Volunteering at a hospital can be an enriching experience for high school students.
Students need to be aware of the policies and requirements for volunteering at a hospital and be prepared for the challenges and responsibilities of this type of volunteering.
By following the guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, high school students can make a positive impact at the hospital and have a meaningful and enjoyable volunteering experience.
