|
|
Planetree and Volunteer Services
Serving as a volunteer at New Milford Hospital engages those who choose this role with fulfillment of our Planetree model of care: a patient-centered, holistic approach to healthcare that promotes mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical healing. It empowers patients and families through the exchange of information and encourages healing partnerships with caregivers. The planetree, otherwise known as sycamore, is the tree under which Hippocrates taught his medical students, always emphasizing the critical role of compassion in healing. Indeed, our volunteers join us as caregivers and serve in a wide variety of capacities calling upon their individual experience, skills and interests. To learn more click on "Planetree" on our home page and also refer to www.planetree.org.
Our volunteers serve in the hospital and in our expanding range of community-based health and wellness programs. We understand the need for flexible scheduling, so volunteers may serve during the day, evening or on weekends.
We are currently focused on meeting our volunteer needs in the following areas:
Emergency Room Ambassadors. These volunteers greet, escort and assist patients and families with questions and non-medical needs while emergency care is provided. Strong social and communication skills, the ability to manage sometimes stressful situations and to work collaboratively with the nursing and medical staff are essential qualities for this role. Volunteers must be able to meet the physical requirements of standing for long periods of time and escorting patients and families to other parts of the facility. Prior experience in the health care sector and computer skills are desirable, but not mandatory.
Planetree Gift Shop Volunteers. Our newly renovated gift shop, named for Planetree since the environment and merchandise are focused on supporting healing of body, mind and spirit is unique. The role requires good computer skills, the ability to stand and walk throughout the facility and to patient rooms with our "Planetree cart". Knowledge of the merchandise and the ability to discuss the merits of products will be developed through training. Participation in gift shop special events is also a feature of this role. Background in small business development is highly desirable.
Community Health and Well-Being Programs. In the era of health care reform, disease prevention and "self-care" is becoming increasingly important. NMH operates programs aimed at reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes among both adults and children. We need volunteers to help us coordinate these in depth, multi-session programs. Good communication, organizational and computer skills are needed. An interest in public health is a plus!
Patient and Family Liaison/Department of Surgery. As a patient-centered hospital, NMH is always seeking to find ways to improve the experience of patients, their families and caregivers. Our One Day Surgery department needs volunteers with good communication skills to serve as liaisons between the physicians and nurse teams, and patients and families while they are being prepared for surgery, during surgery and recovery so that all parties are kept well informed regarding the progress of the procedure, recovery and discharge. Volunteers will need to have excellent communication skills, mobility and the ability to be on their feet for several hours at a time. This volunteer position also requires the ability to function independently in a busy atmosphere, in support of our surgeons and nurses.
To apply for volunteer service at New Milford Hospital, please download the application from our website and return it to us. Our selection process includes several steps, beginning with an initial interview with our volunteer department. Once selected, all volunteers are appropriately oriented to the hospital and their volunteer role. We appreciate the interest of our community members in helping our hospital meet the needs of our patients.
To contact Volunteer Services, call 860-210-5287
Other Volunteer Areas of Service
Admitting
Ambulatory Oncology
Billing
Central Sterile
Delta Society Certified Pet Partners
Diagnostic Imaging/Radiology
Cardiovascular/E.K.G.
Emergency Department
Food Services
Foundation
Gift Shop
Human Resources
|
Information Desk
Laboratory
Materials Mgmt.
Family Birthing Center
Nursing & Patient Care
One-Day Surgery Unit
Pharmacy
Speech Pathology
Volunteer Office
Women's Imaging Center
|
Benefits to You
- Free parking in designated areas
- Daily meal allowance in Cafeteria
- Volunteer service event and awards
- Free blood pressure screening
- References for school or employment
- Hospital coverage for injuries while on duty
- Invitations to the hospital's special events
- Tax deduction for mileage to and from the hospital
- Free immunization programs
Some Things You Should Know
- Time Commitment
Volunteers are asked for a minimum commitment of three (3) hours per week for at least three (3) consecutive months.
- Attendance
Volunteers sign their own time sheet in an Attendance Book. Hours are recorded for service awards.
- Uniforms & Badges
Uniforms and photo ID badges identify a volunteer and are worn with pride while on duty at the hospital.
- Assignments
Assignments are determined based on your specific skills, expertise, personality and interests whenever possible. Open positions will be reviewed with you during your interview and orientation to the Department of Volunteer Services.
- Junior Volunteers
Junior Volunteers must be 15 years old.
- Background Checks
Criminal Background and Medicare Exclusion Checks are conducted on all adult volunteers (18 years old and older).
|
|
