There is emerging research that demonstrates the effect of one’s spiritual beliefs on general health and well-being. More and more information points to the necessity of doing a religious/spiritual profile on a patient—in addition to a physical and lifestyle assessment—in order to provide the optimum plan for health and healing. This book explains the whys, hows, whens, and whats of addressing these spiritual issues in a practical and concise format. This book is intended as a guide for practicing physicians, medical students, and residents to help identify and address the spiritual needs of patients. Those who will benefit most will be physicians who wish to know how to integrate spirituality into clinical practice in an effective and sensitive manner. Other professionals, such as nurses and chaplains, may use this book as they interact with doctors, other health professionals, and hospital administrators. It outlines clearly the following points: Why address spirituality into patient care? How does a physician identify and address spiritual needs? When does one take a spiritual history during the course of medical evaluation? When does a physician provide spiritual support or address spiritual needs? What is the impact that physician involvement in this area can have on the patient’s ability to cope with illness, on the doctor-patient relationship, patient compliance, and on the course of medical illness and response to treatment? Are there ethical boundaries that should not be crossed? Are there times when spiritual beliefs can actually interfere with medical care, leading to health problems, or worsen disease outcomes? HighlightsA practical handbook for medical professionals to address and assess spiritual issues in patient care. The most comprehensive, specific, as well as easily portable reference available on the subject. Provides key resources for medical professionals to develop further skills in this area.