Wise Health System recognizes the central role spiritual care plays in the healing process. By integrating an emphasis on whole person care (body, mind and spirit), spiritual care substantially contributes to the overall well-being of our patients, their family and friends and our staff.
As a vital part of Wise Health System’s mission and vision to deliver compassionate and innovative care and to transform lives through better health, we are dedicated to make every effort to meet patients’ medical, emotional and spiritual needs. It is just one of the many ways our organization continues to build a culture of caring.
According to the American Medical Association, 41% of patients want to discuss spiritual concerns in the health care setting. Numerous studies have been conducted over the past several decades showing a person’s health and well-being benefits when spiritual needs are addressed. A few examples of these benefits include a shorter hospital stay, improved pain management, enhanced patient connection and experience and motivation to complete the tasks of healing. Through research and our experience, we have learned that spiritual care nurtures resiliency by cultivating hope, peace and meaning.
All people have spiritual needs. Some people have religious needs. Fulfilling these needs looks different for everyone. That is why at Wise Health System a visit from a spiritual care provider is a patient-led experience. It is about being present with people, listening to what they want to share, offering support and providing resources that speak to your soul.
Whatever the circumstance that brought you or your loved one to one of our facilities, our spiritual care providers are available to offer an empathetic, listening ear and an open heart regardless of religious faith, beliefs or affiliation.
What are spiritual needs?
Spiritual needs typically connect to overarching questions in life. All the following questions relate to spiritual needs, concerns and resources. Our Spiritual Care Department is here for you to help you work through these and any other questions you may have.
- Why is this happening?
- What does it all mean?
- How do I make sense of it all?
- How do I feel about transitions in my life?
- What are some things that give me comfort and hope?
- What am I grateful for?
- What or who do I trust?
- What do I consider most important in my life?
- Who is my community (the people who love and are loved by me, no matter what)?
What are spiritual resources?
Spiritual resources are practices, beliefs, objects, or relationships that people lean on for support during times of crisis or concern. Our spiritual care providers are members of Wise Health System’s multidisciplinary team and can provide a variety of resources and services that meet both spiritual and religious needs.
- Emotional support
- Prayer
- Complementary care modalities
- (guided imagery, meditation, centering prayer, relaxion techniques)
- Music
- Contact clergy or other spiritual mentors
- Holy writings/scripture
- Inspirational writings
- Religion- specific Items
- Sacramental practices
When should I request a visit?
- When you are feeling alone, anxious or disheartened
- When you need to process difficult emotions
- When you are struggling with tough decisions concerning medical care
- When you need support in sharing grief and loss
- When you would like to discuss fears or beliefs
- When you need a mediator for a family conflict
- When you are excited to celebrate life by welcoming the birth of a new child into the family
- ANYTIME you feel you would benefit from an empathetic presence
A Quiet Space for Everyone
The Ray Hawkins Memorial Chapel is located on the 3rd floor of the main hospital building, providing an interfaith, quiet space for spiritual reflection.
Submit a Prayer Request Request a Visit