Chaplains as Partners in Medical Decision-Making: Case Studies in Healthcare Chaplaincy

Healthcare chaplains working as part of interdisciplinary teams are frequently involved in contributing to discussions on all aspects of patients' wellbeing. This insightful collection of case studies shows how chaplains can effectively support patients and their families in making decisions regarding medical care, as well as for their spiritual needs.

Reflecting the reality of medical decision-making, each case study follows a format where a chaplain and a non-chaplain (e.g. a doctor or a social worker) gives their response to the example considered, helping the reader to understand the chaplain's role in the decision making and how they can contribute constructively to the process. Adding another layer to the multifaceted role of the chaplain, this is essential reading for any chaplain in healthcare.

M. Jeanne Wirpsa, MA, BCC, HEC-C is a Program Manager & Clinical Ethicist in the Medical Ethics Program and a Chaplain at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL.
Karen Pugliese, MA, BCC-PCHAC is an Advanced Practice Chaplain at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL.