GPs call for more chaplains in UK surgeries

Patients struggling with conditions that cannot be treated solely through medical treatment are being referring to local chaplains, in a bid to address issues of brokenness and self-worth that could be impacting people’s physical health.

Dr Ross Bryson, Head of the Karis Medical Centre is one GP who sees spiritual ministry as a vital part of patient care and has secured funding for a chaplain to serve the spiritual needs of patients at his West Birmingham surgery.

Speaking to The Times Dr Bryson said: “There are factors in our humanity which are not emotional: they are issues to do with meaning and belonging and connectedness, and hope, and being valued.”

He added: “We are all overwhelmed in general practice with distressed people.

“And when we know there is someone who can be trusted to help with this person and walk alongside them, then I think we all want that.”

The Royal College of General Practitioners has endorsed the concept, acknowledging the importance of spiritual care for patient recovery.

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