Relationships between the Number of Chaplain Visits and Patient Characteristics at a Large, Midwestern Suburban Teaching Hospital

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Authors

Sarah E. Toates, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Medical Student
Kevin D. Hickey, Corewell Health East

Description

Hospital-based chaplaincy increases patient satisfaction and overall quality of life1 and has been shown to positively influence physical and mental health outcomes.2 Given that most inpatient chaplaincy departments operate with limited staff and resources, and that the vast majority (83%) of patients wish to discuss religion and spirituality with their health care team,3 understanding the activities of inpatient chaplains is essential to optimize the care chaplains provide to hospitalized patients. In general, the current medical literature lacks data to guide inpatient chaplains’ activities based on patient characteristics,4 thus, there is a need for an empirical evaluation of spiritual care departments’ activities in order to demonstrate value, promote quality improvement, and enhance care.

Publication Date

5-2024

Keywords

chaplaincy

Disciplines

Bioethics and Medical Ethics

Recommended Citation

Toates SE, Hickey KD. Relationships between the number of chaplain visits and patient characteristics at a large, midwestern suburban teaching hospital. Poster presented at: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Embark Capstone Colloquium; 2024 May; Rochester Hills, MI.

Comments

The Embark Capstone Colloquium at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester Hills, MI, May, 2024.