TX HHS Form 8666. Volunteer Orientation Agreement

Form 8666, titled Volunteer Orientation Agreement, is an internal compliance document used by organizations that engage volunteers, particularly in healthcare, social services, or community-based programs. The form confirms that a volunteer has received mandatory orientation, training, and informational materials before beginning any volunteer activities, and that they understand and agree to follow established rules and standards.

Purpose of the Volunteer Orientation Agreement

The main purpose of Form 8666 is to formally document that a volunteer has been properly oriented and informed about their responsibilities, legal obligations, and safety requirements. This agreement protects both the organization and the volunteer by creating a written record that essential training and policies were reviewed and acknowledged.

The form is typically completed before a volunteer starts providing services or interacting with clients, patients, or sensitive information.

When This Form Is Required

Form 8666 is usually required in the following situations:

• When a new volunteer joins an organization.
• Before a volunteer begins working with patients, vulnerable individuals, or confidential data.
• When organizational policies require documented acknowledgment of training.
• As part of onboarding procedures for healthcare or community service programs.

The form is generally not required for informal or short-term volunteering unless the organization’s internal policies state otherwise.

Who Is Authorized to Complete the Form

The form must be completed and signed by the volunteer. It is usually reviewed and provided by the organization’s Community Relations department or volunteer coordination staff. The organization may also retain the form as part of the volunteer’s internal file.

Explanation of Key Sections

Training Acknowledgment

This section confirms that the volunteer received essential training prior to starting service. It typically includes acknowledgment of:

• Volunteer Manual
• HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) training
• Confidentiality training
• Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation training
• Individual Rights training
• Infection Control training

By signing the form, the volunteer confirms that these topics were reviewed and understood.

Confidentiality and Related Forms

The form references the completion of Form 8653, Volunteer Application, which includes a confidentiality statement. This establishes that the volunteer is aware of privacy obligations and agrees to protect sensitive information.

Review of Organizational Policies

This section confirms that Community Relations staff reviewed important policies with the volunteer, including:

• Volunteer responsibilities and expected behavior
• Safety rules
• Volunteer position description
• Dress code requirements

This helps ensure the volunteer understands both their role and acceptable conduct.

Signature and Date

The volunteer prints their name and provides a date, confirming that they have read, understood, and agreed to all statements listed on the form.

Practical Tips for Completing the Form

• Do not sign the form until all training sessions have been completed.
• Ask questions if any policy or training topic is unclear.
• Ensure your printed name matches your volunteer application.
• Keep a personal copy for your records if allowed by the organization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signing the form before completing required training.
• Skipping a referenced form, such as the Volunteer Application.
• Not reviewing confidentiality or HIPAA obligations carefully.
• Leaving the date or name field blank.

Legal and Regulatory Context

Form 8666 supports compliance with federal and state regulations, particularly in healthcare and social service settings. HIPAA regulations, infection control standards, and protections for vulnerable populations require organizations to document that volunteers understand their legal responsibilities. This form helps demonstrate due diligence during audits or internal reviews.

Real-Life Use Examples

• A hospital requires all new volunteers to sign Form 8666 before interacting with patients.
• A community health clinic documents volunteer training to comply with HIPAA requirements.
• A nonprofit organization uses the form to confirm that volunteers understand safety and conduct rules.

Documents Commonly Required with This Form

• Volunteer Application (Form 8653)
• Proof of completed training sessions
• Signed confidentiality agreement
• Any additional onboarding documentation required by the organization

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Form 8666 mandatory for all volunteers?

It depends on the organization’s internal policies and regulatory obligations.

Does this form replace a volunteer contract?

No, it documents orientation and training acknowledgment, not employment or contractual status.

Is HIPAA training always required?

HIPAA training is required when volunteers may access protected health information.

Who keeps the completed form?

The organization usually retains it in the volunteer’s internal file.

Can a volunteer start work without signing this form?

Most organizations require the form to be completed before volunteer activities begin.

Related Forms

• Volunteer Application Form
• Confidentiality Agreement
• HIPAA Acknowledgment Form
• Volunteer Code of Conduct

Form Details

• Form Name: Volunteer Orientation Agreement
• Form Number: 8666
• Issued: September 2006
• Usage: Volunteer onboarding and compliance documentation