Commonly Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to volunteer?

The minimum age to apply to become a volunteer at Stanford Health Care is 16. However, all inpatient unit volunteers must be 18.

How long does it take to start volunteering?

The average amount of time it takes for individuals to complete the requirements is 4 weeks, however, individuals can complete the requirements within 1-2 weeks if they have the motivation to do so.

I have clinical training. Can I volunteer?

For legal, risk, and compliance reasons, volunteers are not able to provide clinical assistance to patients (starting IV's, wound care, taking vitals, taking notes or scribe, etc.), regardless of any clinical licenses (MD, RN, NP, PA, MA, LVN, state board certificates, etc.). The role of a volunteer is non-clinical, assisting ancillary support to patients and families. Volunteer hours will not qualify as clinical hours.

I'm looking for an internship; do you offer internships or externships?

We do not offer opportunities for Internships or Externships. All requests must go through the HR Department.

I am interested in volunteering in a research lab; who should I contact?

Volunteers at the Hospital and Clinics are not conducting research or volunteering in the lab. Please visit Stanford University website at www.stanford.edu and visit the School of Medicine to search lab opportunities on the University side.

I would like to observe a clinician; can I do that through Volunteer Resources?

Volunteer Resources does not oversee clinical or non-clinical observerships. All inquiries should be directed to visitingobserver@stanfordhealthcare.org.