Spiritual Care in the cultural multicosmos of a hospital

What is it about?

A hospital is a microcosm with many different cultures, religions, languages, traditions, values and understandings. It is important to respect the religious identity and values of those in need and of the staff, and to ensure equal opportunities. However, scientific studies have shown that access to the health system is more difficult for immigrants and, on average, their health is poorer. Spiritual care should therefore contribute to equal opportunities and human dignity in the transcultural environment of the hospital. This requires intercultural competence. In addition to general knowledge of certain cultures and religions, it also includes an understanding of the situation and specific challenges of migrants and refugees. Their faith can be shaped by different religious traditions and may not be assigned to any in particular. Many refugees suffer from the consequences of different traumas, especially women. Death and grief are often interpreted and evaluated differently. Similarly, the meaning of illness can vary in understanding and can also be defined as something that lies outside the measurable and visible range of our Western reality. Intercultural competence requires a sincere interest in getting to know, respect and appreciate the mysterious other person. This will enable spiritual care to contribute to equal opportunities

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Why is it important?

Spiritual care needs to understand the complexity of cultures, values and rites in the hospital. The religious identity and values of those in need and of the staff need to be respected. Spiritual Care has the duty to ensure equal opportunities.

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