A Dictionary of Patients' Spiritual & Cultural Values for Health Care ...
A Dictionary of Patients' Spiritual & Cultural Values for Health Care ...
A Dictionary of Patients' Spiritual & Cultural Values for Health Care ...
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IntroductionWhy do we need to be culturally and spiritually sensitive? The Joint Commission (JC) holds hospitalsaccountable <strong>for</strong> addressing and maintaining patient rights. These rights include the accommodation<strong>of</strong> cultural, religious, spiritual, and personal values as well as to religious and other spiritualpractices.<strong>Health</strong> care pr<strong>of</strong>essionals are entrusted to care <strong>for</strong> patients as whole persons - body, mind andspirit. The health care approach is interdisciplinary and encompassing. It is important, then, <strong>for</strong> thatapproach to be culturally and spiritually sensitive. In addition, health care pr<strong>of</strong>essionals need to beempowered with the capacity, skills, and knowledge to respond to the unique needs <strong>of</strong> each patient andtheir loved ones.The Joint Commission is developing proposed accreditation requirements <strong>for</strong> hospitals to advanceeffective communication, cultural competence, and patient-centered care. Implementation isexpected to begin January 2011.Questions about these materials or suggestions <strong>for</strong> improvement should be directed to:The Rev. George Handzo, BCCVice President, Pastoral <strong>Care</strong> Leadership & Practice<strong>Health</strong><strong>Care</strong> Chaplaincyghandzo@healthcarechaplaincy.org6
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