Healthcare professionals help patients every day as part of their jobs but, beyond work, they also have vital skills that the community needs right now. In addition to responding to natural disasters and more, the COVID-19 pandemic has created an increased demand for trained professionals, and once you are certified, there are plenty of ways you can contribute to your community and give back.
If you would like to find a rewarding opportunity to volunteer, here are a few organizations that need help from qualified healthcare professionals like you.
Your State
Several states, including Arizona, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington, need volunteers and have set up dedicated registration sites. The American Medical Association has compiled a list with direct links. Click here for the latest information.
Volunteers in Medicine
Volunteers in Medicine is an organization that needs both active-practicing and retired health professionals to work in its clinics, diagnosing and treating patients. The organization looks for experienced people in nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, social work, and other healthcare fields. Due to the pandemic, most Volunteers in Medicine clinics are offering telehealth services to deliver healthcare services. Volunteers can donate their time in-person, via telehealth, or both.
Project HOPE
Project HOPE is a health and humanitarian relief organization that works around the globe. To respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, Project HOPE has immediate needs for help in hard hit areas and is actively looking for medical volunteers, including licensed nurses, emergency medical technicians, testing facilitators, and more. Deployment for these projects is for a minimum of two weeks, and the organization provides volunteers with transportation, lodging, and meals.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is recruiting volunteers to help support public health agencies as communities deal with the pandemic, as well as natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires. Opportunities include helping out with blood drives and delivering needed healthcare services to members in the community. The Red Cross also has some remote, work-from-home opportunities available. Reach out to your local chapter for more information.
More Opportunities
Help is needed in a wide variety of places. In addition to these organizations, you can find smaller community-based needs by visiting VolunteerMatch. This website helps connect volunteers with worthy organizations in need based on your interests and location. The organization also has a page for COVID-19 specific needs.
Whether you are a licensed healthcare professional or a student who wants to do something to help those in need, volunteering can be a gratifying way to share your time and talents with others. To learn about Fortis’s healthcare programs, schedule a tour at one of our campuses or call (855) 436-7847 for more information.