Volunteer Requirements

Update as of 10/7, 12:50 pm:

We are so thankful for the high level of interest from our community! However, as a result, our volunteer registration is now at capacity.

We are working diligently to develop new opportunities for volunteers to serve in meaningful ways.

Please check our website on Tuesday, November 12th for updates.

If you should have any questions, please email [email protected].

FAQs/Volunteer Requirements

 

What are the volunteer requirements?

  • Prospective volunteers are required to attend a virtual info. session, attend an in-person group interview, complete online volunteer training courses (including HIPAA, the Patient Experience, Infection Prevention, and Safety), complete a background check if 18+, and receive a health clearance in order to volunteer.

What is the time commitment?

  • Our program requires a minimum six-month commitment.
  • Volunteers must be able to serve one 3–4 hour shift on the same day and time each week.

Where can I serve?

  • We have limited volunteer opportunities available at our Parnassus, Mission Bay, and Mt. Zion campuses.
  • Please note that our BCH Oakland opportunities are at capacity and we are unable to accept BCH Oakland applicants at this time.

When can I volunteer?

  • Our volunteer schedule needs currently are on weekdays between the hours of 8 am – 5 pm.
  • We currently do not have opportunities for volunteers to serve on weekends or after 5 pm on weekdays.

What can I do as a volunteer?

  • Volunteer duties vary, but may include visiting and socializing with patients, helping with light clerical tasks such as sorting or filing, and assisting patients/visitors with wayfinding.
  • Volunteers cannot perform any “hand-on” or clinical duties, perform the same job as staff members, or shadow or observe medical staff.  
  • We do not coordinate any shadowing, research, or internship opportunities.  

If you should have any questions, please email [email protected].

Health Requirements:

If you are accepted to become a UCSF volunteer, you will be required to complete the series of immunization requirements listed below. It is requested that you complete all of your immunization requirements through your own healthcare provider. However, if this presents a financial hardship for you, Employee Health or Occupational Health may be able to assist with these requirements.

 

Please note: multiple visits may be required. 

Requirement 

Option 1 

Option 2 

COVID-19 Vaccine 

ONE or more of the following options:

  • Initial shot or series (one-dose, such as the J&J vaccine) + ONE Booster (initial or bivalent) 
  • Bivalent Vaccine
  • XBB 1.5 Monovalent Vaccine

Note:

You will not be allowed to submit an exception form without first completing one of the vaccine requirements under Option 1.

Approved Exception

COVID-19 Vaccine - Religious exception

COVID-19 Medical Exception

Seasonal Influenza Vaccine 

1 dose of vaccine formulated for the current flu season 

Completed flu vaccine declination form

MMR Vaccine 

2 dose series 

Titer showing immunity to all 3 components (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) 

Varicella Vaccine 

2 dose series 

Titer showing immunity 

TDaP Vaccine 

TDaP given within the last 10 years 

TDaP given once after the age of 17 

+ 

TD given in the last 10 years 

TB Screening 

1 negative TB test (PPD or Quantiferon) in prior 3 months 

+ 

1 negative TB test (PPD or Quantiferon) in prior 12 months  

Positive TB test 

+ 

Negative chest Xray 

+ 

Negative TB symptom review 

Hepatitis B Vaccine 

Required only for San Francisco Emergency Department volunteers

2 or 3 dose series 

Titer showing immunity