The Surgical Volunteers Program at DHMC was created to assist the families of patients admitted to Same Day Surgery at DHMC. Students serve as an important liasion between hospital staff, patients, and families during surgery and post-operative recovery. This is a special opportunity to be actively engaged with the particulars of surgical procedure and the psychological support of patients & families. In addition to this aspect, the Anesthesiology Dept has agreed to provide shadowing opportunities with anesthesiologists, so you can see what goes on in the OR and in the recovery room.

We have a mandatory meeting announced at the beginning of each term where we both present the program to prospective students and allow them to complete the applications on site. We select volunteers based on past experience and an essay written at the meeting. Once selected, all volunteers must attend an orientation meeting at the hospital where they will recieve a tour of the hospital and learn the skills required of the program.