As part of our commitment to excellence, Ochsner Volunteers provide an extra dimension of effective care and service to our patients, families, visitors and staff. Volunteers are an integral part of Ochsner's Service Excellence initiative. Their time and talents are vital to the comfort and care of our patients and their families. Ochsner volunteers have the satisfaction of knowing that even the smallest service can have far-reaching effects.
Giving Your Time and Talent
Where would you like to help? At Ochsner, we take the time to match each volunteer's interests and skills with departmental needs. Volunteers may choose from a varied choice of patient and non-patient care areas throughout the institution.
Why Volunteer?
- Involvement in your community
- Learn from health-care professionals
- Acquire new and enhance existing skills
- Add experience to your resume
- Develop self-esteem by helping others
- Opportunity to develop new friendships
- Annual rewards and recognitions
- Discounted meals at Ochsner Medical Center (Jefferson Highway)
- Complete Service Hour requirements
- Explore a new career in healthcare
Adult Volunteers are accepted throughout the year. Junior Volunteers are accepted on a quartlery basis; once every Winter, Spring, Fall and twice every Summer.
Requirements
- Must be at least 14 years of age and entering the 9th grade
- Completion of the Volunteer Process
- Commit to completing a minimum total of 50 hours (three or more hours/week)
If you or someone you know may be interested in providing help, hope and healing through their gift of caring, please call Ochsner's Volunteer Services Department at 504-842-5085.
Process
The following steps are the required practices for becoming a Volunteer at Ochsner
STEP 1: Application
The Volunteer Application can be found here or in the Volunteer Services Office. Once you have fully filled out the application you will can be considered for the following steps.
STEP 2: Interview
A Volunteer Services team member will contact you to schedule an interview. Your acceptance and placement will be based on your interests and the needs of Ochsner. After your interview, two Reference Checks will be completed.
STEP 3: Orientation
Upon acceptance, you will be invited to a required orientation. This covers Ochsner's policies and procedures, guidelines for volunteers, and safety and security.
STEP 4: Screenings
Following orientation, we will schedule you for a required health screening provided by Ochsner's Employee Health Department. Adult Volunteers will also have a Background Check completed. (Junior Volunteers will have a health screening form and TB test completed by their Pediatrician.)
STEP 5: Placement and Scheduling
At the arrival of your health screening appointment, we will complete your volunteer placement, schedule, start date, and ID badge.
STEP 6: First Day of Volunteering
On your first day, you will purchase your volunteer uniform and receive your ID badge. A Volunteer Services team member will escort you to your placement and introduce you to your supervisor. For further information, please contact us at 504-842-5085.
