Complementary and Volunteer Services
At Yale New Haven Hospital, we understand the human side of healing. Former patients and their loved ones, members of the community and others who have been touched by their experiences with YNHH often volunteer time and services that directly benefit our patients. Thanks to their efforts and our volunteer services team, we are able to offer you a variety of complementary services during your stay.
Ask a member of your patient care team about the availability of these and other complementary services in your unit.
Animal Companion Program
The calming effect of pets can be a welcome distraction from your medical care. Trained volunteers can bring a canine friend by your room for a visit. These loveable, huggable dogs are screened and evaluated to ensure they are safe to be around patients, visitors and staff. Many are certified by the Delta Society Pet Partners®, which trains dogs to behave appropriately in hospital settings.
Book and Activity Cart
Our book and activity cart volunteers make the rounds regularly to loan reading materials, games and other free amusements to patients.
Complementary Healing and Spiritual Services
Healing arts and complementary medicine services are often available. Certified Reiki practitioners regularly provide patients gentle, hands-on energy healing techniques. Free relaxation TV and CDs, such as the Continuous Ambient Relaxation Environment Channel on the television in your room, are also available. Members of our Spiritual Care team can also visit to provide spiritual counseling and guidance at your request.
Elder Horizons
A team of YNHH volunteers visit and interact with geriatric (elderly) patients.
Heart and Vascular Patient Peer-to-Peer Support
Volunteers who have had experience as cardiology patients provide peer-to-peer support to patients about to undergo or recovering from heart surgery and other cardiovascular procedures.
For More Information
Additional volunteer services may be available during your stay or for patients at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital or Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital. Contact our Volunteer Services department at 203-688-2297 for complete details or information on how you can get involved.
