Healthcare and Religion Lecture Series

Valerie B. Satkoske, PhD
VP Ethics UPMC and UPMC PUH/SHY
VP Mission Effectiveness, Spiritual Care, and Ethics UPMC Mercy
Center for Bioethics & Health Law, University of Pittsburgh

Abstract: Every day one in seven patients across the US is cared for in Catholic hospitals. To provide health services in a manner which is consistent with the Catholic Church’s teaching on the dignity of the human person, Catholic health entities seek guidance from the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (ERD), published by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and from their diocesan bishop.  This session will provide an overview of the ERD, considerations for professionals who work in or with a Catholic health entity, and common misconceptions about Catholic healthcare.