Referring to Chaplaincy in Serious Illness: How Data Support the Practice

April 5, 2022 -
8:00am to 9:00am

Healthcare and Religion Lecture Series

Natalie C. Ernecoff, PhD, MPH
Associate Policy Researcher at RAND Corporation

Abstract: Although many patients and their families view religion or spirituality as an important consideration near the end of life, such concerns are infrequently screened for and addressed in clinical settings. It is important for clinicians to understand when to screen and how to refer to chaplaincy or spiritual care services. Dr. Ernecoff will revisit the data she presented in summer 2021 demonstrating that palliative care research supports screening for spiritual care needs by clinicians. She will discuss the broad skillset of spiritual care providers and chaplaincy to meet spiritual, religious, and existential needs of people with serious illness, including those near the end of life.

View online here.

Co-sponsored by the Center for Bioethics & Health Law, Department of Religious Studies, Jewish Studies Program, Palliative and Supportive Institute of UPMC, and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

Directions and Parking Information

Online