Results from the national hospice volunteer training survey

Background: Although the role of volunteers is at the heart of hospice care, little is known about hospice volunteer training and volunteer activity. Method: A survey was used to assess current training programs for hospice volunteers. Hospices were invited to participate in the study from a link on the website for the Hospice Volunteer Association and Hospice Educators Affirming Life Project. Results: Survey results revealed that the majority of volunteer work is in patient care, with most hospice agencies requiring a minimum 12-month volunteer commitment and an average 4-hour volunteer shift per week. Volunteer training is separate from staff training, is provided by paid agency staff, and costs approximately $14,303 per year. Conclusions: Communication and family support are considered important curriculum topics. Revisions to current volunteer training curriculum and format are suggested.