FAQs
If you're thinking about becoming a Medicare Rights Center volunteer, we want you to know what to expect. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from prospective volunteers.
How much time is required for volunteering at the Medicare Rights Center?
How long are volunteers expected to serve?
Are there volunteer opportunities available in the evenings or on weekends?
Is it possible to take planned vacations during the year-long commitment?
Is prior knowledge about Medicare required?
Is there room for growth as a volunteer?
Do I have to be familiar with computers?
How much time is required for volunteering?
We ask our daytime hotline volunteers to commit to four hours per week; hotline volunteers who work the evening shift are asked to give two hours each week. Volunteers who visit senior centers work approximately three hours a month.
How long are volunteers expected to serve?
It takes a lot of training and practice to become proficient in Medicare, so we ask our volunteers to commit to at least one year of service.
Are there volunteer opportunities available in the evenings or on weekends?
We currently have volunteer opportunities on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in our New York City office.
We do not have weekend office opportunities at this time.
Is it possible to take planned vacations during the year-long commitment?
Yes, you can volunteer and take time off for a vacation.
Is prior knowledge about Medicare required?
No prior knowledge or experience is needed. Volunteers attend five half-day training sessions before beginning to work at the Medicare Rights Center.
Is there room for growth as a volunteer?
At the Medicare Rights Center, we are always looking for ways to build on our volunteers' talents. During the volunteer interview, we will discuss your interests and skills and find ways to engage you in a way that is meaningful to you. As volunteers become proficient in Medicare, they may be invited to specialize in particular areas.
Do I have to be familiar with computers?
Yes, a basic knowledge of how to use a computer is preferred, because volunteers are required to use Medicare Interactive, our web-based counseling tool, in their work with clients.