Volunteer FAQS
Where do we provide services?
We conduct our services on or around a converted RV. The RV is taken to different areas of the city or neighboring parishes from the Lower 9th ward to Meraux (St. Bernard Parish) and Kenner (Jefferson Parish) which is a predominantly Hispanic community. We usually plan at least a month in advance and stick to a schedule for several months, if not longer.
What type of volunteers can work on the unit?
The Mobile Unit needs MDs in Family Medicine, Geriatrics, Internal Medicine as well as Psychiatry. The Mobile Unit can also use volunteer RNs, Social Workers and non-medical persons to greet clients and register them. LPNs have not been approved for temporary licensure for volunteer work. Psychologists can be used if temporary licensure can be obtained � we are currently investigating this issue. Speaking Spanish, although not required is helpful, especially at the Hispanic site.
How many medical volunteers can work at one time?
Due to limitations of space, we comfortably can use 1 physician, 1-2 nurses, 1 registration person and 1 social worker or psychologist per outing.
Are there any temporary licensure requirements?
There are forms that must be completed for temporary licensure for RNs, MDs and Social Workers. These forms can be found on the tab titled �Info and Forms�. They will need to be completed and returned to St. Anna�s at least 2 -3 weeks in advance of your arrival to assure completeness and allow me time to get them to the LA-DHH or appropriate Boards for approval. You will also need to include copies of your license, driver�s license, DEA number, health insurance cards, etc. Once here, the MD and RN must go to the LA-DHH between 9am and 3pm, Mon-Fri. with picture ID and license to verify identity before they can start to work; I will provide directions. Social Workers have no similar requirement.
What about malpractice insurance?
According to Dr. Erin Brewer at the LA-DHH, MDs and RNs who follow this process and volunteer their services (not paid), "DHH and volunteer agree that volunteer to the extent allowed by law is an employee of DHH for the limited purposes of indemnification, immunity, and worker's compensation medical (but not weekly disability payments) benefits for any actions that may arise in the course and scope of volunteer's assigned duties."
What will my schedule be like?
Change and flexibility are key components to living and working in New Orleans these days. We currently have a schedule that we try to adhere to, but changes occur due to weather, MD availability, new or changed locations, etc. You will be sent an itinerary for your visit the week before your arrival which hopefully will stay the same while you are here.
Currently the RV holds �clinics� as follows:
| Mondays | None Scheduled |
| Tuesdays | 10am � 2pm |
| Wednesdays | 9am - 1pm |
| Thursdays | 10am � 2pm |
| Fridays | 10am-2pm |
You should be prepared to arrive at St. Anna�s about one hour prior to the clinic start time.
What do I wear?
No uniforms are needed. Casual, decent clothing suitable for the weather is fine. Lab coat is optional. Shoes with closed toes and heels are strongly suggested due to debris and safety climbing in/out of the RV.
Do I need to bring medical supplies?
There are no supplies you must bring with you, unless you�d like to bring your own stethoscope. If you or your church/group wish to collect and bring supplies for the unit, we can provide a list for you
Do I need to provide my own transportation?
Yes. If you are not driving to New Orleans, please be prepared to rent a vehicle or use taxi service (which may get expensive and may not be timely). If you are one of a group of people, please make sure your group coordinator understands your need for a vehicle or the ability to bring you and pick you up at different locations and times than the rest of the group. Transportation to the LA-DHH must be arranged as well as to/from the RV daily.
Do I need to provide my own housing?
Yes. Unfortunately, St. Anna�s does not have adequate facilities to ensure your comfort. We have, however, made agreements with several local B & B�s for special weekly discount rates for our out-of-town physician-volunteers. You may secure either a room or suite at one of these nearby B & B�s listed under the tab �Where will I stay.� Also, depending on the season, you may well find other excellent accommodations and reasonable prices in the French Quarter or adjacent neighborhoods
What about meals?
Meals are �on-your-own. You should bring a bag lunch on the unit with you, as you will be out all day with little or no time to go get something to eat and in some areas, no where to get food