Physicians’ Religious Characteristics and Their Perceptions of the Psychological Impact of Patient Prayer and Beliefs at the End of Life: A National Survey

Abstract

US physicians hold divided perceptions of the psychological impact of patients' religious beliefs/practices at the end of life, although they more are likely to believe that frequent prayer has a positive psychological impact for patients. Formal training in spiritual care may significantly improve the number of religion/spirituality conversations with patients at the end of life and help doctors understand and engage patients' religious practices and beliefs.

The Emmaus Project: Aging, Illness, and Dying Among Older Christians—A Qualitative Study

“…In addition to the three most prominent themes, processing death and existential anxiety was a highly recurring theme, even though this study did not specifically target patients with terminal illness or in hospice care. This pattern corresponds with existing literature that thoughts of death and dying are more prevalent in the minds of older patients than the frequency with which physicians address such existential concerns (Thompson 2019). A recent 2020 cohort study following 261 palliative care patients through anonymous questionnaires found that 62% of patients identified at least one spiritual concern and 32% of patients mentioned fear of dying (Michael et al 2020).…”

“…"Secure attachment to God" has been shown to improve personal well-being measures at the end of life (Bradshaw and Kent 2018). Contrary to colloquial belief in God's presence has been associated with an increased likelihood of DNR status by improving one's "coming to terms" with death (Sulmasy 2006;Thompson 2019). In our study, God's presence was mentioned in questionnaire responses alongside the clinical themes of physical healing, physical limitations, and events of death or terminal illness.…”

“…Among questionnaire responses, the other most recurring spiritual theme was prayer and worship. A 2010 national survey of over 1000 physicians showed that 85% of physicians believe that prayer has a positive impact at the end of life (Thompson 2019).…”

“…Among questionnaire responses, the other most recurring spiritual theme was prayer and worship. A 2010 national survey of over 1000 physicians showed that 85% of physicians believe that prayer has a positive impact at the end of life (Thompson 2019). Although there is less literature assessing patients’ perspectives on prayer and worship at the end of life, the studies have demonstrated religious coping to be associated with psychological health in patients (Scandrett and Mitchell 2009).…”

“…According to a 2015 systematic review, 10–47.3% of older adults in North and South America have endured elder abuse (Dong 2015). Up to 21% of residents in a nursing home have reported experiences of nursing home neglect within the last year (Zhang et al 2011). In addition to loneliness, neglect, and physical and cognitive deterioration, many nursing home residents are confronted with the imminence of death.…”