Patient & Family Support Volunteer Roles

Position Summary:

The Patient & Family Support Volunteer provides compassionate, non-clinical support to patients and their loved ones throughout their healthcare experience at Adirondack Health. Serving as Waiting Room Hosts and Patient Companions, volunteers offer comfort, presence, and reassurance during what can often be stressful or uncertain moments.

Under the supervision of designated staff, volunteers assist by welcoming families in waiting areas, providing updates as directed by clinical teams, offering comfort items, engaging in conversation, or sitting with patients who may feel anxious or alone. This role does not include clinical care but focuses on emotional support, hospitality, and enhancing the overall patient experience.

Volunteer Functions/Responsibilities:

1. Provide a Welcoming Presence – Greet and assist patients and families in designated waiting areas; offer a calm, reassuring presence during visits, procedures, or hospital stays.
   
   
2. Offer Non-Clinical Companionship – Sit with patients who may feel anxious or alone; engage in supportive conversation, reading, or quiet presence as appropriate.
   
   
3. Support Waiting Room Comfort – Help maintain an orderly, welcoming waiting area by offering general assistance, comfort items (as approved), and notifying staff of immediate needs.
   
   
4. Facilitate Communication (Non-Clinical) – Direct families to appropriate staff for updates; relay non-medical messages to nursing staff as requested; never provide medical information or interpretation.
   
   
5. Observe & Report Concerns – Promptly notify nursing or clinical staff of patient discomfort, emotional distress, or safety concerns.
   
   
6. Maintain Professional Boundaries – Do not provide medical advice, clinical care, or personal opinions regarding treatment; follow direction from always assigned staff.

Educational Requirements/ Qualifications:

• Interpersonal Skills & Emotional Readiness
• Ability to follow established procedures and manage tasks independently
• Professional communication skills and a respectful demeanor
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with hospital policies

Reports To:

Volunteer Coordinator, Adirondack Health

Contacts:

Patients, Families, Employees, Medical Staff and Management.

Workplace Environmental Conditions/Hazards:

Modern, clean, well-lighted, ventilated and heated hospital. This position is on-site at Adirondack Health facilities. Must be comfortable working in a patient-facing clinical environment

Have a question about Volunteering?

Get in touch with Alissa, our Volunteer Coordinator!