• Talk to colleagues who have volunteered and ask them about their experience. Your professional organizations probably have a number of subgroups or committees whose members would be happy to share their experiences with you.
• Review the brochures or Web sites of organizations looking for medical volunteers. Find out what level of education/experience is required for the volunteer assignment. Take a look at pictures provided, and ask yourself “Could I fit in here?”
• Review the expectations of the setting/populations served. Ask up front about reimbursement or financial coverage for travel to the site, travel undertaken as part of the assignment, and cost of meals, lodging, and special equipment, such as stethoscopes, BP cuff, etc.
• If the assignment is in the US, be sure to investigate the potential for malpractice liability coverage and whether there are any state or federal laws that may need to be addressed.
As one of the great democratic activities, medical volunteering should always be accessible, representative, and meaningful.
I would appreciate hearing from you regarding your experiences, both within your educational program and postgraduation, with volunteering. I’d also like to add to the list of national and international medical volunteering opportunities and to hear what barriers might be out there that prevent or hinder your service opportunities. Please send your comments to PAeditor@qhc.com.