Since we believe that the discussion of spirituality is integral to the practice of medicine, our curriculum is required. It is presented throughout residency training, and in a wide range of contexts. It routinely interfaces with other aspects of the curriculum to show the key role of spiritual and cultural care in daily practice. This curriculum is didactic, experiential and clinical.
Some elements are level specific and others are longitudinal.
Level specific highlights include such components as an introduction to spirituality and medicine seminar during resident orientation, experiences with a 12 step and a hospice program, chaplain shadowing, and home visits with patients that focus on listening skills, spiritual assessment, and appropriate responses. There are a variety of longitudinal components. One such activity is an ongoing series of lectures on topics related to medicine and spirituality that is part of the core didactic curriculum. Other elements include videotape reviews of patient encounters involving spiritual issues, and monthly spiritual and cultural assessment and care rounds as part of the inpatient teaching program and resident Balint groups. The Behavioral Medicine Inpatient Rounds provide yet another opportunity for residents to discuss the spiritual needs of patients and their families.