For many people, spiritual needs or concerns become especially important at the end of life or in times of illness or loss. Hospice recognizes the importance of these concerns and offers patients and families support and assistance in responding to them. Each patient and family is offered the opportunity to express their needs, concerns and wishes for spiritual support, and Hospice team members respond accordingly. Because each person is treated as a unique individual, each patient's particular spiritual or religious beliefs, practices and tradition are respected and honored.

Hospice chaplains are available to contact community clergy and congregations or to access other spiritual resources, if necessary, and to visit patients in their home, if desired. Spiritual care often focuses on offering an understanding and compassionate ear to a person's life and spiritual journey, as well as current hopes, fears and struggles. Prayer, readings, rituals, sacraments, music, pastoral counsel and many other services and referrals may also be offered, and Hospice chaplains are available to help plan and conduct funerals or memorial services.

Hospice chaplains work together with other team members to provide integrated, holistic care. They participate in the Hospice Bereavement Program and are available to the community for educational programs and other services.