Are you aspiring to a career in healthcare and seeking hands-on experience? The Ucla Care Extender Program offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a clinical environment. This volunteer program, available at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and UCLA Health – Santa Monica Medical Center, provides invaluable first-hand exposure to patient care and the daily workings of a hospital.
What is the UCLA Care Extender Program?
The UCLA Care Extender Program is designed to give volunteers a comprehensive understanding of healthcare from a clinical perspective. By directly assisting medical staff in various departments, Care Extenders gain practical experience and witness the vital roles healthcare providers play. This program is a fantastic way to explore different medical specialties and solidify your career path in the medical field.
Benefits of Joining the Care Extender Program
Volunteering as a Care Extender at UCLA Health offers numerous benefits:
- Real-World Clinical Experience: Engage in patient contact and assist healthcare professionals in a real hospital setting.
- Career Exploration: Gain insights into various medical departments and roles, helping you make informed decisions about your future career.
- Professional Development: Develop essential skills in communication, teamwork, and patient care, valuable for any healthcare career.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with medical staff and other volunteers who share your passion for healthcare.
- Personal Growth: Experience the rewards of contributing to patient well-being and making a difference in a healthcare environment.
Locations and Departmental Opportunities
The program is available at two prestigious UCLA Health medical centers:
- Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center: Offers a wide array of departments for volunteer placements, providing diverse experiences.
- UCLA Health – Santa Monica Medical Center: Provides opportunities to volunteer in a community hospital setting, offering a different perspective on patient care.
Volunteers can be placed in various departments, gaining exposure to different medical specialties and patient populations. Specific department options are detailed on the program’s website.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To be eligible for the UCLA Care Extender Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Be currently enrolled in college or hold an accredited degree.
- Commitment: Commit to 250 hours of volunteering (4 hours per week for one year) plus additional departmental training hours. Shifts are available throughout the day, with extended hours in the ER.
- Orientation: Attend a mandatory orientation session held quarterly (check the program website for dates).
- Application & Interview: Submit an application (provided at orientation), and if selected, participate in an interview.
- Training: If selected after the interview, attend a mandatory training session.
- Certifications & Screenings: Possess CPR certification from the American Heart Association, undergo TB screening, and provide proof of MMR and varicella vaccinations.
Take the First Step Towards Your Healthcare Career
The UCLA Care Extender Program is a competitive and rewarding volunteer opportunity for those serious about pursuing a healthcare career. If you are dedicated, compassionate, and eager to learn, this program can provide you with the experience and insights you need to succeed.
For the most up-to-date information and to begin your application process, please visit the UCLA Care Extender Volunteer Program website. You can also contact the UCLA Health – Santa Monica Medical Center Care Extender Program directly at (424) 259-8165 for specific inquiries.
Please note that this is a volunteer program and does not provide funding for participants.
