The way spiritual care is organised in hospitals varies considerably. This means that patients’ spiritual needs may not be identified, and they may not receive high-quality and safe spiritual care. Research demonstrates this gap in care can impact health outcomes, quality of patient experience and the safety of health care.

SHA is leading an engagement process so that stakeholders can be involved in the co-design of a consistent spiritual care model. MosaicLab, an independent engagement and facilitation consultancy has been contracted to support the project. The core project team includes representatives from SHA, Alfred Health, Australian Commission on Safety & Quality in Health Care, and the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne.

The first of the leadership workshops was held on 25th October 2022, where a diverse group of leaders and experts gathered to discuss what needs to be consistent in the ways spiritual care operates to ensure quality, safe spiritual care services. The end result will be a model ready for selected health services to trial in 2023.

Developing a national model of spiritual care in health

Click to download the DRAFT MODEL.

Learn more

Strategic Engagement Plan: Co-design of a consistent Spiritual Care Model

Dilemmas facing spiritual care delivery in health services in Australia

Health Leader's Forum report

Video - Richard Egan's presentation Essential Elements of Best Practice - International Perspective