Most are able to sit and talk with the patient, but may not think to offer to help with specifics such as filing insurance papers, reviewing hospital bills, taking out the trash every other day, or whatever else needs doing. This list offers many possibilities for church involvement, especially of the church school class or other group within the church. Many people who otherwise would be of little help are very helpful once they know what the patient and family need and feel they can do the job. A men's group, for example, is likely to be happy to do yard work on a weekly basis if asked. That's just the way we are.
Spiritual care is discussed in the section on individual needs .
With spiritual care as well as other assistance, clergy may need help in understanding what to do. One might request prayers, reading from the Bible, communion, regular visits from several choir members, and so on. Do not be reluctant to voice needs and requests to clergy or anyone else. Many services exist and the quality varies tremendously from very good to very poor. It is absolutely essential that private duty personnel be well-monitored by family in addition to whatever supervision is furnished by the agency.