Spiritual Coordinator Brian is helping to enhance patient-centred care
Logan and Beaudesert hospitals are embedding spiritual care into healthcare delivery with the help of its newly established Spiritual Care Subcommittee (SCS).
The subcommittee will focus on how staff can better support the spiritual needs of patients, families, and staff, regardless of their faith, beliefs, or background.
Director of Allied Health Kristy Perkins, who chairs the subcommittee, said the group’s work was set to enhance patient-centred care.
“Health and healing are about more than just the physical body,” Kristy said. “The SCS has three main goals: partnering with consumers to understand and meet their spiritual needs, improving systems to support spiritual care services, and promoting spiritual care as a routine part of healthcare delivery across Logan and Beaudesert Health Service.
“By acknowledging and respecting diverse beliefs and values, the committee seeks to foster an environment where patients feel supported not just physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.”
The SCS was formed through an expression of interest process late last year and is as diverse as the community it serves.
Members include First Nations and multicultural support officers, consumer partners, spiritual carers, and representatives from external faith and spiritual groups. The team also includes Logan’s Volunteer Coordinator, Partnering with Consumers Coordinator, and the Director of Social Work helping to ensure spiritual care is integrated across departments.
Spiritual Coordinator Brian, who also provides bedside chaplaincy services, said spiritual care could help people find meaning, comfort, and connection during difficult times.
“Whether through quiet reflection, a conversation, or support from a spiritual leader, understanding patients’ spiritual needs can reduce stress, improve emotional wellbeing, and give patients and families extra support when they need it most,” he said.
As the committee begins its work, the hospital community looks forward to the positive transformation this initiative will bring.