Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about volunteering at St. Anthony Hospital:
Q: Are there age requirements to volunteer at St. Anthony Hospital?
A: Yes. Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older. Some volunteer opportunities may be limited due to additional age requirements.
Q: I don't have a Social Security Number. Can I still apply to volunteer?
A: No. A valid Social Security Number is required because no other form of identification can be substituted for our verification process.
Q: I have court-ordered community service. Can I volunteer at St. Anthony Hospital?
A: No. We cannot accept court-ordered service volunteers.
Q: Where do I send my completed application?
A: You may complete and submit your application online here. All applicants under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the Authorization to Volunteer.
Q: What will happen if I don't agree to complete the screening process?
A: According to laws and health care regulations, all prospective volunteers are required to complete our screening process, which includes a thorough background check and health screening. Those who do not complete the screenings will not be able to volunteer at St. Anthony Central Hospital. This process, though rigorous, helps to ensure the health and well-being of our volunteers, staff and the patients and families we serve. As a result, it is a benefit to you as well as to St. Anthony Central Hospital.
Q: What should my immunization record show?
A: We require proof of immunization against MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) and Chickenpox (Varicella). If you do not have records of these immunizations, you may ask your physician to draw a blood titer to determine which vaccinations you have received. If you have not had the above immunizations, you will need to receive before volunteering; the costs of obtaining those immunizations will be your responsibility to incur, so you may want to check with your insurance provider or physician's office.
Q: Where can I get a physical or have blood titers drawn to prove immunity?
A: Your family physician should be able to assist; however, if you don't have a physician or don't live close to your physician's office, you may call the volunteer office to arrange a blood draw at St. Anthony Central Hospital. All costs of obtaining a physical or immunizations are your responsibility, so you may want to check with your insurance provider or physician's office.
Q: Why do I need a Tuberculosis (TB) test and what does it involve?
A: The TB skin test is used to determine if you have developed an immune response to the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). This response can occur if someone currently has TB, has been exposed to it in the past or has received the BCG vaccine against TB (this vaccine is not given in the U.S.).
The skin test has two steps.First, the occupational medicine nurse will inject your forearm during your New Volunteer Health Screening with a small amount of the TB testing agent. This typically produces a small, pale elevation of the skin, which is quickly absorbed. You will then be asked to return within 48-72 hours so a nurse can "read" your results. The nurse will examine the injection site for any indication of an immune reaction to the test.
The second step of the TB assessment requires you to return to occupational medicine clinic one to three weeks after completing the first step so another skin test can be administered. Following the injection, you will once again be asked to return to EHS within 48-72 hours so a nurse can read your results.
Q: I had a TB test within the past year. Do I just need to complete the rest of the health assessment?
A: If you have had a TB skin test within the last eight months, please inform the volunteer office and provide written documentation.
Q: Who should I contact if I still have questions?
A: If you have questions or would like additional information, please call the Volunteer Services Department at 720-321-4070.
