Good Shepherd Hospital Services Home Health Hospice Program Hospice Volunteers

Hospice Volunteer Information

When hospice care became a Medicare benefit in 1982, written into the law was the requirement that community volunteers had to provide a minimum of 5 percent of total patient care hours. It is one of the many things that make hospice care unique in healthcare!

Home Hospice Volunteer Opportunities

 

Home hospice volunteers can decide how much and what types of things they would like to do. Some typical volunteer duties are:

  • Listening to a patient’s concerns.

  • Being a comforting and supportive presence.

  • Engaging in the patient’s hobbies, for example, playing a board game or gardening

  • Running errands or doing light housekeeping for the patient and family

  • A friendly visit to a hospice patient in a nursing home

  • Providing time for the caregiver to take care of her/his self.

  • Data entry

  • Preparing mailings

  • Assisting in coordinating support services

  • Providing phone calls to a bereaved family member

How Do I Get Started?

First, fill out the online volunteer application below and indicate hospice as your preferred area of interest. The application process includes a background check and health screening at no cost to you. Please email sjs-samaritans@hshs.org with questions.

Once your application is accepted, you will meet with our volunteer coordinator, to discuss your areas of interest. 

All volunteers undergo free and comprehensive training before starting volunteer duties.

Volunteering is a fun, rewarding and essential part of HSHS Home Care Central Illinois. We look forward to having you as a part of our program!

Where Can Volunteers Serve?

 

  • Springfield, Decatur and Litchfield and surrounding areas

Who Can Volunteer?

 

  • Volunteers must be an 18 years or older.

  • Must be able to pass a background check and health screening

  • Must be compassionate and willing to learn.

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