A Parish Nurse is a volunteer registered nurse who is concerned about the health status of her congregation and is willing to give of her own time to help that congregation with their health care needs. Parish nurses offer blood pressure screenings for the members of their church and are also available for information on illnesses and medication. Many of the nurses also develop educational programs on current health care concerns for their congregation. Parish nursing is a national program with approximately 4,000 participating nurses.
Parish nursing is a nondenominational program that is easily adapted to any faith.
The Western Maryland Health System instituted a Parish Nurse Program on September 24, 1997. It has grown into a thriving program with 47 churches participating in the tri-state area. The Parish Nurse Program creates a support system for congregation members that are based in the faith community. The program carries the WMHS mission and values into the community by promotion of health and wellness for the mind, body and spirit within the church community.