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The Globe would like to hear from those who work in health care about the volunteers in hospitals, clinics and other health settings.Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press
Canada is facing a health work force shortage, and often, volunteers are stepping in to fill some of those gaps. From helping to navigate hospital hallways to providing companionship or emotional and social care, this often-invisible work force has become an essential part of our health care system.
In the past few weeks, we have written about volunteer drivers who have clocked tens of thousands of kilometres taking seniors and newcomers to medical appointments; a ventriloquist who entertains patients at a children’s hospital; and a group of women’s auxiliary volunteers who meet weekly to create surgeons’ caps and baby blankets, and deliver carts of library books to in-patient units.
For an upcoming story, The Globe would like to hear from those who work in health care about the volunteers in hospitals, clinics and any other health setting that they have met and engaged with. Is there a particular person who stands out? Is there an experience you recall with a volunteer? What did they do, and what kind of impact did they leave behind with you and the patients? How much of an impact do volunteers have in your health care setting?
Share your thoughts in the box below, or send us an email at audience@globeandmail.com. If you’d like to submit a photo, send it using this link.
Health care workers, have you met a volunteer who stands out? Let us know.
For an upcoming story, The Globe would like to hear from those who work in health care about the volunteers in hospitals, clinics and any other health setting that they have met and engaged with. What did they do, and what kind of impact did they leave behind with you and with a patient? Share your thoughts in the box below or send us an email at audience@globeandmail.com.