Frequently Asked Questions
How long after submitting my application does it take to hear back?
We ask that you give us at least 30-60 days to receive a response from the Volunteer Program. We receive lots of applications every day and will take time to get through and contact each person.
Once I receive a response from the Volunteer Program, how long does it take until I can begin Volunteering?
Once the Volunteer Program contacts you, it can take up to 30 days after orientation before you begin Volunteering. If any of the required paperwork is delayed, it may take longer than 30 days.
Do I have to pay for parking?
Free parking for volunteers.
What should I expect leading up to orientation?
- Application process is open and may take up to 30 days to receive notifications from the Volunteer Program. We appreciate your patience.
- Orientation Is held on different days and times, differ each month.
- Phone interview is required.
- You will receive an email to schedule orientation once you have cleared a background screening.
What should I do if I must be absent from my volunteer assignment due to illness or other personal needs (i.e., vacation)?
If you are going to miss your volunteer assignment for one or two days due to illness or other personal necessity, please contact the department you are working for directly. This is a courtesy to the staff, and we ask that you please be diligent in fulfilling this responsibility. If you are going to be absent from your volunteer assignment for a period longer than two days/ shifts, in addition to contacting your department you must contact the Volunteer Program and request a Leave of Absence (LOA) form.
Please call the hospital’s main line (916) 887-0000 and ask to be transferred to your department. Your department’s phone number is also listed on your volunteer service description.
What should I do if my badge isn’t working, or I lose my badge?
Please contact the Volunteer Program if your badge is not working or you lose your badge. If lost, please do not volunteer until replaced. Badges are required every time you are on campus for safety purposes.
What Should I do if I forget my pin number, or the computer used to log in is not operating properly?
If you forget your pin number, please contact the Volunteer Program and we will call/ email you with your pin number. If you forget to log in or were unable to log in, please contact us with the date and times you volunteered, and we will enter your information into our system for you.
If I do not clock in/out on the computer, will it affect my hours?
Yes, if you do not actively clock in/out on the computer, we will not have record that you have been attending.
What should I do if I have problems or concerns?
Please contact the Volunteer Program with any problems or concerns you may have. We want to hear from you, and we appreciate your feedback.
What should I do if I want to discontinue my volunteer service?
Please contact the Volunteer Program if you wish to discontinue your volunteer service and let us know when you are planning to leave.
What should I do if I would like to request a copy of my hours or a letter of recommendation?
Please contact the Volunteer Program if you would like to request a copy of your volunteer hours.
When are my competencies due?
All unit competencies are due within 30 days of your first shift. Please complete on time to avoid termination.
Where do I turn in the competencies?
The competencies are to be completed, signed by you and your preceptor, and submitted to the Volunteer Program. (Submitted to the office or by email)
What happens if I do not turn in my competencies within 30 days?
Not submitting your competencies can lead to suspension and/ or termination. (It is vital that if you cannot submit it within 30 days for any reason, please reach out to the Volunteer Program and let us know why.)
What should I do if I need to change my schedule, or I am interested in working in a different area of the hospital?
If you need to change your schedule, please contact the Volunteer Program. Preferably, you will need to complete at least 100 hours of service in one unit before changing units. If you have questions or concerns, please let the Volunteer Program know.
If I change units, do I have to do another unit competency?
Yes, each unit has a different description and will have different requirements. You will have to complete the new unit’s competency within 30 days from starting in that unit.
Can I volunteer in multiple units?
This is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Volunteer Program to further discuss.
Do I need to receive a flu shot every year?
Yes, to keep volunteering, it is required that you receive an annual flu shot or sign a Declination Form and providing a copy to the Volunteer Program.
Do I need to I need to take a TB test every year?
Yes, after providing initial onboarding results, to keep volunteering, it is required that you receive an annual PPD and providing the results to the Volunteer Program.
Is there anything other than immunizations that need to be completed yearly?
Yes, the training and tests that were completed during orientation, need to be completed on an annual basis from the Quarter that you started. The Volunteer Program will reach out to you and schedule a time in which it will be completed.
How can I contact the Volunteer Program for more information?
You may contact the Volunteer Program by sending us an email at smcsvolunteerservices@sutterhealth.org or by calling (916) 887-4379. It may take a few days to receive an answer to your inquiry. Your patience is greatly appreciated.