When to Refer

When the patient requests a referral, or has spiritual needs that you cannot fully address, be sure to refer the patient to appropriate spiritual resources, such chaplains, clergy, or other spiritual leaders.

Just as healthcare providers would count on clergy to refer persons needing medical attention to them, so must healthcare providers be alert to spiritual issues in their patients and consult with clergy as appropriate.

A key guideline in any patient situation is to inquire about particular religious or spiritual resources. While some people may not be accustomed to having healthcare providers inquire about these matters, when it is approached in a factual, open, inviting manner, most people will be pleased to share and will feel that they are respected and cared for in a deep and meaningful way.

This section: ~20 min.