HSS Mission

The Mission of Hospital for Special Surgery is to provide the highest quality patient care, improve mobility, and enhance the quality of life for all, while advancing the science of orthopedic surgery, rheumatology, and their related disciplines through research and education. We do this regardless of race, color, creed, sexual orientation, or ethnic origin.

HSS Vision

The Vision of Hospital for Special Surgery is to lead the world as the most innovative source of medical care, the premier research institution, and the most trusted educator in the field of orthopedics, rheumatology, and their related disciplines.

HSS Values

Our Values are the fundamental beliefs that guide us in everything we do.

DIVERSITY:We are committed to an environment of respect, equatable treatment, and opportunity for our patients, employees, and communities.
EXCELLENCE: We set and continually raise the bar on all that we do.
GRATITUDE: We express appreciation every day, through words and actions, for the opportunity to serve our patients, our community and each other.
INNOVATION: We support an environment that fosters new ideas and new approaches in everything we do.
INTEGRITY: We take pride in maintaining the highest levels of personal and professional conduct.
PASSION: We bring energy, commitment, and enthusiasm to our work every day.
TEAMWORK: We participate fully as members of our team, respecting, supporting and empowering one another.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How many hours are volunteers required to serve per week?
    The minimum is 6 and the maximum is 30.
  • What if I don t meet the minimum hour requirement?
    If you do not meet the minimum hour requirement, we will not be able to write you a letter or sign any paperwork to confirm your completion of volunteer service.
  • How long do most volunteers serve at HSS?
    Typically volunteers serve between 6 months to 1 year.
  • Can students volunteer?
    Yes, anyone age 16 and older.
  • Do I need to take any classes or go through training before I volunteer?
    Volunteers are required to complete the hospital s orientation. Once assigned to a particular department they must go through the specific departmental training.
  • What if I cannot come in for my volunteer shift?
    Please contact your site supervisor and let him or her know that you are unable to attend that day. We do ask that you make up any missed assignment(s) and give advanced notice when possible.
  • What if I need to take time off?
    We offer a Leave of Absence up to six months. After six months you will be considered a new volunteer and need to complete the entire application and clearance process again. We also cannot guarantee that you can return and cannot hold your assignment during a leave.
  • Can I shadow a doctor or physician?
    Shadowing is not under the scope of volunteering.
  • Can I get a letter of recommendation?
    Once the volunteer completes their 150 hours requirement the site supervisor can write him/her a recommendation letter.
  • Can I volunteer in more than one area?
    Once the volunteer completes their first month evaluation and wish to add another assignment, they will need to speak with the Intern & Volunteer office.
  • Can I be employed by HSS and volunteer as well?
    HSS employees cannot volunteer as this is a conflict of interest.
  • Do I need to take any classes or go through training before I volunteer?
    Volunteers are required to complete the hospital's orientation. Once assigned to a particular department they must go through the specific departmental training.