Leveraging the Power of Religious Diversity in Health Fields

Abstract

Religion and spirituality played a founding role in American healthcare. Though it shows up differently today, religious diversity continues to be present in powerful ways in American medicine. However, despite its relevance, most health field professionals are not adequately prepared to engage the religious diversity they encounter. This article explores how religious identity and diversity curricula in health fields programs can ultimately improve patient care and health equity. Highlighting best practices and key pedagogies, this article profiles campuses that have successfully integrated religious diversity education into health fields curricula.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carolyn Roncolato

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Carolyn Roncolato ([email protected]) is the director of academic initiatives at Interfaith America (formerly Interfaith Youth Core). She has a PhD in theology, ethics, and human culture from Chicago Theological Seminary.