VA To Welcome Back Volunteers at Health Care Facilities

Volunteer activities at VA health care facilities that had been paused to prevent the spread of coronavirus are slowly being reintroduced.

“Just as our facilities are gradually reinstating services, volunteers are slowly reintegrating into them,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “Volunteers are an integral part of our health care teams, offering fundamental services. We look forward to their return.”

Volunteers can expect the following safety measures:

• Phased reentry: Volunteers are being asked to return to duty on an as-needed basis while maintaining physical distancing. VA asks that volunteers do not return to the facility unless they have been approved to do so.
• Retraining: Volunteers must complete an orientation and training on VA’s policies and procedures. This includes the proper use of personal protective equipment including face coverings.
• Health screenings: Volunteers, like staff and patients, must consent to being screened for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms prior to entering facilities.

Visit VA Voluntary Service for more information.

https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5500