Episode Details

The Unsung Heroes: Examining the Role of Chaplains in End-of-Life Care

 

In episode 131 of Hospice Explained, Marie Betcher RN interviews Dr. Robert Klitzman, a distinguished psychiatrist and author. Dr. Klitzman discusses his latest book, 'Dr. Will You Pray For Me?: Medicine, Chaplains, and Healing the Whole Person' which explores the crucial role of chaplains in providing spiritual, existential, and emotional support to patients and their families during end-of-life care. He shares personal stories, including his sister's death on 9/11, and emphasizes the importance of chaplains in addressing non-medical aspects of patient care, which often go overlooked. The conversation highlights the need for more educational efforts to encourage acceptance of hospice and palliative care, and stresses that chaplains should be recognized as essential members of the healthcare team.