Broadening Access

I think the message that you give new physicians is important and of course you adjust it for the institution. I give you this example based on the Ascension Health Mission Statement: This mission that you are joining has some other implications for your practice. Note that we serve the poor and vulnerable. For instance, do you accept charity patients? Do you accept Medicaid? Some of you will find the “Catholic” part of this statement troublesome. If you are Roman Catholic, this will be an easy part of your Catholic identity. If you are not, recall that “catholic” simply means “universal” and implies that we serve everyone from prince to pauper. Nevertheless, “Catholic” ministry implies adherence to the Religious and Ethical Directives of the Church. Notice the dedication to “spiritually centered, holistic care”. Holistic is not about nuts and berries. Rather, it is a care with three dimensions: spirit, mind and body. Finally, there is a social advocacy that extends even beyond our medical work. This is the mission you join when you practice here. What drives this healing mission are sayings by Jesus of Nazareth