Community interfaith parish nurses, also referred to as congregational nurses or health ministers, are a part of their faith community's ministry. As professional nurses, they are skilled in assisting community members to identify problems and resolve them.
Parish nurses provide a holistic intervention program for their congregational members.
They extend help to members facing sudden illnesses, changes in family situations or bereavement, as well as encouraging healthy lifestyles. Teaching individual community members about specific health concerns and providing group workshops to promote wellness. Assisting congregational community members through life changes when professional counseling is not needed. Identifying needs within the faith community and the community at large, as well as organizing volunteer programs addressing those needs. Assisting communication between patient and doctor, members and clergy, and community and Abington Memorial Hospital.