As part of our exploration of spirituality and wellbeing we continue to engage with research associated with aspects of this space. Dr Richard Egan from the University of Otago, Dunedin School of Medicine is a director of the Cancer Society Research Collaboration and co-director of the Social and Behavioural Research Unit. He has worked as a mental health promoter in public health, and has been at the Dunedin School of Medicine for 15 years. Richard’s PhD thesis explored spirituality in end-of-life care, and he has recently pioneered spiritual care education in nursing and medical teaching.
With spirituality being central to the wellbeing of all people, particularly Māori and Pacific, and 20 per cent of our population being actively religious, spiritual care is important for many people facing serious health issues. This can include discussing fears, and trying to find meaning in life and death. To understand what this means for our evolving healthcare system, we need to consult with people and whānau about the best ways for them to access spiritual care.
Dr Egan is engaging across Aotearoa New Zealand in a series of discussions to present up-to-date research on this topic and give healthcare professionals and the public the chance to have their say. The Bishop’s Action Foundation and WITT have partnered with Dr Egan to enable the New Plymouth engagement:
Title: Spiritual care in 21st century Aotearoa New Zealand healthcare
What is spiritual care, and how can we do it better?
Date: Friday 17 June 2022
Time: 10am–12pm
Venue: Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki, Te Piere, F Block 20 Bell Street, Welbourn, New Plymouth
Register by Tuesday 14 June 2022.