Q: How old do I need to be to volunteer in the Hospital?
A: Volunteers over the age of 16 can serve in all areas.
Q: Can I volunteer if I need community service hours?
If you qualify as a Student, you are able to complete your community service hours at South County Hospital. If you need community service hours for any other reason, please contact the Volunteer Services department at 401-788-8670.
Q: I cannot commit to regular volunteer work right now. Is there any way I can still volunteer?
A: Volunteer Services needs a minimum volunteer commitment of one 3-4 hour time block per week for six months. Our only exception is during the summer. You can volunteer for 3 months but must dedicate two 3-4 hour time blocks per week.
Q: Why do you require so many vaccinations before volunteering?
A: South County Hospital follows all laws, regulations, and requirements imposed by state and federal law, OSHA, the Joint Commission, and other regulatory bodies. We require volunteers and staff to receive vaccinations for the safety and well-being of our patients, visitors, staff, and volunteers.
Q: Do I have to pay for any of the tests required in the health screening?
A:
- If you are currently enrolled in a higher learning college or university, this can be done at your school's Health Services.
- If you are under 18, we ask that you see your physician. Co-payments may apply.
- If you are over 18 and not enrolled in a higher learning college or university, our Employee Health Department will make an appointment with you to give you additional vaccinations or titers needed at no cost. Please do not see your own physician due to the cost you will incur.
Q: Does volunteering guarantee me a job at the Hospital if I decide to apply for a paid position?
A: No, we cannot guarantee that volunteers will secure a paid position. Volunteering does, however, provide an opportunity to develop internal references, access to the internal job postings, and exposure to the culture and values required of all people who work in the Hospital. Employees are selected for jobs based upon their experience, skills, references, and credentials.
Q: Can I come to the Hospital to shadow a doctor or observe a procedure?
A: If there is an agreement with your school for your academic program, contact your school to make arrangements. If you contact a physician on your own to request a job shadow or an observation and you are approved, have that physician contact the Medical Staff Office at 401 788-1466 to complete the process.
Q: Does South County Hospital offer internship positions?
A: Yes, the Hospital offers non-clinical internships through the Volunteer Services department. South County Hospital does not offer clinical internships unless previously contracted through your school. Learn more >