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Spirituality Healthcare

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Submitted By a4merwatson
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Running Head: HEALTH CARE PROVIDER AND FAITH DIVERSITY

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER AND FAITH DIVERSITY

Grand Canyon University
HLT310V
July 08, 2012

Abstract Americans live in the land of free where decisions primarily are ours to make from what pair of shoes to wear, what we ingest, what kind of car we drive to who we vote into the oval office. The same holds true for one’s religious and/or spiritual beliefs. Whether by choice or by upbringing in one’s family and culture, not everyone shares the same philosophy towards a higher power or modern medicine. Healing is a process toward wholeness or wellness and encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and tribal attributes (Zarren, n.d.). Not only does it focus on the disease or illness, but additionally embodies a holistic approach to care. What may not be important to the physician, nurse, or support staff is important to the patient; for it is the patient and their families that we serve. Spirituality is personal and important to everyone. Defined as, “a complex and multidimensional part of the human experience-our inner belief system. It helps individuals search for the meaning and purpose of life, and it helps them experience hope, love, inner peace, comfort, and support.” (Ashcraft, Anthony, & Mancuso, 2010). With this in mind, healthcare providers and institutions need to be cognizant of various faiths and spiritual practices to allow for healing of an individual stricken with disease or illness. In looking at Native American, Muslim, and Buddhism faiths the intent is to identify what rituals, practices, and philosophies are important to each domain with respect to healing and modern medicine.
Native American I chose Native American because of having Cherokee descendants on my mother’s side of the family. I am not certain of percentage, but do recall growing up of my grandmother expressing having in

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