Spirituality is part of a strategy to counter the dehumanizing effects of technological medicine and provide more compassionate and holistic care. In earlier posts the work of Dr. Christina Puchalski regarding the physician’s role in the spiritual care of patients was discussed.

But how does spirituality differ from religion? The former is a personal quest for answers to the ultimate questions about life. The latter is an organized system of beliefs, practices, and symbols designed to facilitate closeness to a higher power.

TUFT|ebcam has more on spirituality and religion in medicine here.

7/22/06 19:15 JR