NEWS
An expanding collection of news stories that discuss the intersections between healthcare and religion from January 2023 to the present.
Following its merger with Catholic Health Initiatives in 2021, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has implemented significant changes, including the closure of its only birth center in Seattle and revisions to employee insurance that will no longer cover abortions and vasectomies. These decisions have narrowed reproductive health options and sparked concerns among staff and the community, emphasizing the restrictive nature of religious healthcare directives. The merger has led to a reduction in services traditionally available in secular institutions, affecting access to care and aligning more closely with Catholic ethical guidelines, despite legal protections for such services in Washington state. The move reflects a broader trend of healthcare consolidation impacting service availability and choice, particularly in areas like reproductive and maternity care.
By: Elizabeth Troutman Mitchell
At the 10th graduation ceremony of St. Francis Schools of Health Sciences in Uganda, Fr. John Chrysostom Maviiri advised medical graduates to prioritize ethical practices over financial gain. In his homily, he highlighted corruption in the medical field, such as the unethical promotion of certain pharmacies for personal profit. He emphasized the importance of focusing on patient welfare rather than monetary rewards. Fr. Maviiri urged the graduates to emulate St. Francis of Assisi, who is celebrated for his commitment to serving the poor. He also cautioned against unethical practices like fabricating diagnoses for financial gain and stressed the importance of patience and spirituality in medical practice. The ceremony reinforced the message that the true reward for health workers lies in the health and betterment of their patients.
By: Silas Isenjia
Catholic Health Australia's advocacy is deeply rooted in the mission and experiences of Catholic services across Australia. One example of this mission is St. Paul’s Hostel in Melbourne, which has served the Arabic-speaking community for nearly 30 years. CHA also visited the Little Sisters of the Poor St Joseph’s Home, where the sisters prioritize the marginalized, offering care regardless of financial status or background. CHA also saw firsthand the transformative work at VMCH Corpus Christi in Greenvale, where men facing homelessness and addiction find dignity and care in their later years. These visits exemplify the exceptional care and dedication that Catholic aged care facilities provide across the country, reflecting the core values of the Church’s mission.
By: Brigid Meney
Catholic hospitals are disputing a report by the conservative group Do No Harm, which claims that 28 Catholic health systems provided gender-affirming surgeries to minors between 2019 and 2023. The report, based on anonymous billing data, has been criticized for its flawed methodology, including the use of non-specific treatment codes and a lack of patient age and sex information. Experts argue the database is scientifically unreliable, as it includes treatments unrelated to gender transition, such as nose jobs and birth control. Catholic health leaders have raised concerns that the report could lead to harmful policies for transgender individuals. Do No Harms findings coincide with growing political attention on transgender issues and potential revisions to the U.S. Catholic health system's ethical directives, which may limit gender-affirming care. Despite these criticisms, some bishops have endorsed the report, calling for a special meeting to address the issue.
By: Catholic Health Australia, medianet.
Nurses from Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore are rallying on November 12, 2024, outside a U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting to urge the bishops to hold Ascension accountable to Catholic healthcare directives. They accuse Ascension, of failing to uphold its mission to serve vulnerable populations and respect employees. Nurses cite unsafe staffing, workplace violence, and profit-driven decisions that undermine care for marginalized patients. Ascension has also faced criticism for cutting services, particularly in low-income, predominantly Black and Latin communities, and selling hospitals in poorer areas.
By: National Nurses Organizing Committee, National Nurses United
Catholic hospitals are disputing a report by the conservative group Do No Harm, which claims that 28 Catholic health systems provided gender-affirming surgeries to minors between 2019 and 2023. The report, based on anonymous billing data, has been criticized for its flawed methodology, including the use of non-specific treatment codes and a lack of patient age and sex information. Despite these criticisms, some bishops have endorsed the report, calling for a special meeting to address the issue.
By: Katie Collins Scott, NCR
Over 600 Catholic hospitals in the U.S. no longer have nuns in chief executive roles, a shift from when these institutions, were led by nuns. Sister Irene Kraus, a former CEO, emphasized financial viability with her motto "no margin, no mission". However, this focus on margins has transformed many of these hospitals into large corporations that operate for-profit subsidiaries and pay high executive salaries, diverging from charitable roots. Sister Mary Jean Ryan, one of the last nuns to lead a hospital system, reflects on her career from nursing to becoming CEO of SSM Health, a $10 billion revenue-generating giant with extensive operations, including a for-profit pharmacy benefit manager. Despite these business undertakings, Catholic hospitals maintain certain religious observances and commitments to care irrespective of a patient’s financial status.
By: Samantha LIss
The article highlights a case involving a pregnant woman whose water broke prematurely, presenting a situation where her fetus had little chance of survival. Despite the woman's wishes to end the pregnancy, she was unable to receive intervention due to the hospital's adherence to Catholic directives that prohibit procedures like abortion. It highlights instances where patients are turned away from necessary care due to religious constraints, particularly in Catholic hospitals. Despite medical recommendations, patients may face delays or denials in receiving appropriate care, posing risks to their health.
By: Rachana Pradhan, Hannah Recht
This article describes Dr. Danielle Kain as a proponent of MAiD and it draws concern with this as she is now the director of palliative care at Providence Hospital. She supports the MAiD Referral Policy in which a patient who requests MAiD is referred to a physician who is able and willing to provide MAiD. About 20 other Catholic medical professionals wrote a letter in June to the archbishop with their concerns about Kain’s appointment.
By: BC Catholic
In a detailed exploration of the tension within Canadian Catholic hospitals, the article addresses the clash between religious convictions and the provision of comprehensive healthcare services. Susan Camm, a clinical manager at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, reacted viscerally to the presence of a crucifix in a modern hospital setting, illustrating the cultural and religious conflicts that can arise in spaces meant to serve a diverse population. The article delves into the limitations imposed by Catholic doctrine on services like reproductive health, fertility treatments, care for LGBTQ2+ patients, and medically assisted death (MAID), which conflict with the expectations of a publicly funded healthcare system that pledges universal access.
By: Wendy Glauser
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Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has partnered with Build 2 Lead, a nonprofit in northwest Washington state, to support minority youth through education and empowerment initiatives. The collaboration aims to expose young people to various career paths, including those in health care, fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry. By investing in community-based programs, the health system demonstrates a commitment to addressing social determinants of health and promoting equity.
By: Julie Minda
This PBS NewsHour segment investigates how Catholic hospitals' adherence to religious directives can impede emergency care for pregnant women. It features the case of Anna Nusslock, who, at 15 weeks pregnant, experienced a premature rupture of membranes. Despite the life-threatening nature of her condition, Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka, California, declined to perform an abortion due to Catholic ethical guidelines. Nusslock was eventually transferred to another facility for care. The report highlights the tension between religious healthcare policies and medical standards, especially in rural areas where alternative options are limited.
By: Sarah Varney and Rachel Wellford
Catholic Health Initiatives-Iowa (CHI) is defending itself in a medical malpractice lawsuit by arguing that the loss of an unborn child does not constitute the death of a "person" under Iowa law, thereby limiting potential noneconomic damages. The lawsuit stems from the stillbirth of a 35-week-old fetus, Eloise, after CHI allegedly failed to diagnose and treat preeclampsia in the mother, Miranda Anderson. CHI contends that the state's malpractice cap on noneconomic damages applies, as the loss of a fetus is not recognized as "loss or impairment of mind or body." This position contrasts with Catholic ethical guidelines, which affirm the sanctity of life from conception. CHI has since withdrawn this argument, reaffirming its commitment to the belief that life begins at conception.
By: Clark Kauffman
Cathy Jenkins reflects on the Jubilee of the Sick and Health Care Workers, highlighting the profound moments of compassion and transformation witnessed in healthcare settings. She shares stories of caregivers' dedication, such as a wife tenderly feeding her husband who suffered a life-limiting stroke, and healthcare workers' joy in providing comfort to patients. Jenkins emphasizes that faith doesn't shield from suffering but offers a response through hope, love, and accompaniment. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel and Pope Francis's message, she underscores the capacity for change and renewal even in the face of illness.
By: Cathy Jenkins
This article examines the tension between the moral imperative of universal healthcare access and the realities of the U.S. healthcare system, highlighting the denial of medical claims by insurers and the ethical dilemmas faced by Catholic healthcare providers. It underscores the Church's teaching that healthcare is a human right, as articulated by Pope John XXIII in Pacem in Terris and Pope Francis in 2022, who emphasized that "health care is not a luxury, it is for everyone." The piece also features insights from Jesuit Father Michael Rozier, who discusses the challenges of aligning Catholic social teaching with the complexities of modern healthcare delivery.
By: Kimberly Heatherington
Catholic Health in Buffalo, New York, encourages its staff to share brief narratives of “sacred encounters”—moments of unexpected grace or connection in clinical settings. These stories, ranging from humorous to deeply moving, are collected on the system’s website and shared at leadership gatherings. One example recounts a nurse comforting a distressed patient after her shift, leading to the patient’s peaceful sleep. Chaplains like Rev. Cynthia Short and Rev. Geoffrey Hord view these moments as manifestations of divine presence in everyday care. The initiative aims to highlight the spiritual dimension of caregiving and reinforce Catholic Health’s mission of holistic, compassionate service.
By: Dale Singer
Unity Health Toronto, one of Canada's largest Catholic healthcare networks, has appointed Altaf Stationwala as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective July 1, 2025. Stationwala brings extensive expertise in health system operations, integration, and digital transformation. Unity Health Toronto comprises St. Joseph’s Health Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital, and Providence Healthcare, and is renowned for its comprehensive patient care, research, and education initiatives.
By: Unity Health Toronto
Idaho Governor Brad Little signed legislation enhancing religious freedom protections for medical professionals. The law recognizes the right of conscience as fundamental, allowing healthcare workers, institutions, and payers to opt out of procedures or services conflicting with their religious, moral, or ethical beliefs without facing retaliation. This measure addresses concerns over mandatory participation in procedures like abortion, contraception, or gender-transition treatments.
By: Tyler Arnold
Planned Parenthood of New York has announced plans to sell its only Manhattan facility, located at 26 Bleecker Street in the SoHo neighbourhood. The organization cites financial difficulties and the building's outdated infrastructure as reasons for the closure. This facility had been the focus of decades-long pro-life prayer vigils and peaceful protests. Pro-life advocates view the closure as a significant victory, attributing it to the power of persistent prayer and advocacy.
By: Madelaine Elhabbal
Mercy Health, a Catholic hospital in Ohio, was involved in a legal dispute concerning a request by local police to conduct a body cavity search on a detainee brought to the hospital's emergency room. The attending physicians declined, citing ethical concerns and potential risks to the patient's health, including the possibility of releasing drugs into the patient's system. In response, police terminated an agreement with the hospital to provide policing services on its campus. The situation escalated to a federal lawsuit, alleging violations of the hospital's constitutional rights.
By: Daniel Payne
In the March 2025 issue of Catholic Health World, a mission director addresses the challenges healthcare facilities face in ensuring workplace safety during mental health emergencies while upholding the dignity of patients. The piece highlights the role of mission directors in guiding ethical responses to such crises, and how the Catholic tradition could guide thinking about how to care for patients with mental health issues.
By: Valerie Schremp Hahn
Two nurses in New South Wales, Australia, are facing criminal and health prosecutions after a video surfaced on social media showing them making violent and discriminatory remarks against Israeli patients. The video, which drew widespread condemnation from political, medical, and community leaders, led to urgent audits of patient care at their workplace. In the video, one nurse claimed to send Israeli patients "to hell," while the other stated intentions to deny treatment and harm them.
By: Jack Gramenz, Luke Costin
A Catholic health team from St Elizabeth Hospital in Hyderabad, Pakistan, visited Mater Mothers' Hospital and Mater Private Hospital in Brisbane as part of a fact-finding mission to enhance healthcare services in Pakistan. The visit, led by Father Robert McCulloch and hospital administrator Eric Siraj, focused on learning from Australian medical practices to implement feasible improvements in Pakistan despite financial limitations. The partnership is bolstered by overseas funding, particularly from Australia, which has enabled significant advancements.
By: Staff Writers
The Catholic Health Alliance of Canada is celebrating the sixth annual National Catholic Health Care Week from February 2-8, 2025. The 2025 theme focuses on the interconnectedness of all creation and the essential link between human health and the health of the planet, inspired by Pope Francis' teachings in "Laudato Si’." The event emphasizes the role of Catholic health care in promoting environmental stewardship and improving community health. It also calls for reflection on Catholic health care’s contributions as a compassionate and innovative force in the health system, advocating for a society where all individuals are valued and cared for.
By: Kiply Lukan Yaworski
George Weigel criticizes the current state of American medicine, highlighting how the willful participation of medical professionals in practices such as abortion and euthanasia contradicts the Hippocratic Oath's original intent to preserve life. Weigel calls for a reformation of American medicine to uphold life-affirming values, advocating for the involvement of well-catechized Catholic medical professionals and organizations like the Catholic Medical Association to lead these changes.
By: Geroge Weigel
The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) is currently investigating allegations of medical malpractice and wrongful death involving 21-year-old Isaiah Benedicto Williams, who died during a procedure at St. Joseph Catholic Hospital. The investigation commenced with a preliminary hearing at the LMDC headquarters on January 10, 2025, attended by the deceased’s family and hospital representatives. Chaired by Prof. Peter S. Coleman, the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee is leading the inquiry, ensuring a thorough and transparent process. The LMDC has called for public patience and reaffirmed its commitment to justice and credibility throughout the ongoing investigation.
By: James-Emmanuel D. Cole Jr.
The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) is currently investigating allegations of medical malpractice and wrongful death involving 21-year-old Isaiah Benedicto Williams, who died during a procedure at St. Joseph Catholic Hospital. The investigation commenced with a preliminary hearing at the LMDC headquarters on January 10, 2025, attended by the deceased’s family and hospital representatives. Chaired by Prof. Peter S. Coleman, the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee is leading the inquiry, ensuring a thorough and transparent process. The LMDC has called for public patience and reaffirmed its commitment to justice and credibility throughout the ongoing investigation.
By: Wise Wesseh
In Oregon, a major strike involving about 5,000 healthcare workers, including nurses and doctors, began on January 10, 2025, marking the state's largest healthcare strike. The workers are demanding better compensation, improved conditions, and more staff to ensure quality patient care. Tensions have escalated between Providence Medical Group and the Oregon Nurses Association, with accusations of bad-faith bargaining and complaints about negotiation delays. Providence is open to resuming negotiations at some facilities, while the union insists on addressing systemic healthcare issues. The standoff continues as both sides seek a fair resolution.
By: Angelina Walker
Kristine Matthies, a nurse at Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, is suing the hospital for religious discrimination. Hired in 2016, Matthies requested a religious exemption from receiving the flu shot, citing her beliefs. While on leave to care for her father, her exemption request was denied without her knowledge, and she missed the appeal deadline. Previously, she had been granted an exemption for the COVID-19 vaccine. After submitting a late appeal, she was fired. The EEOC found reasonable cause to believe Matthies was denied a religious accommodation, violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Matthies is seeking $25,000 and other damages.
By: Brandy Beard
Some hospitals, including Indiana University Health, have started asking patients about their spiritual lives as part of their healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of spiritual and physical health. This initiative, supported by research indicating the health benefits of spiritual practice, aims to provide holistic care. The program pairs patients lacking social support with community members for meaningful interactions. This approach not only addresses immediate health concerns but also fosters a sense of community and belonging, crucial for long-term recovery and quality of life.
By: Ben Thorp
The article critiques the secularization of healthcare, arguing it often overlooks the dignity of individuals created in God's image. It highlights the role of Catholic healthcare in addressing this issue by promoting a holistic approach that respects each person's full humanity. The piece references the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson to underscore dissatisfaction with impersonal health systems dominated by insurance interests. Figures like Dr. Kristin Collier and Louis Brown advocate for healthcare that integrates spiritual and physical care, emphasizing personal encounters with the Divine and a community-based model through initiatives like the Curo Foundation.
By: Jason Adkins
A federal lawsuit has been filed by Mercy Health in Lorain, Ohio, alleging that city officials retaliated against the hospital and violated its constitutional rights after doctors refused to perform a body cavity search on a detainee. The hospital argues that the requested search posed a high risk of serious injury or death, potentially releasing drugs into the patient's system. Following the refusal, the police terminated their security services agreement with the hospital, leading to increased risks for the facility and its community. The lawsuit highlights that the hospital's refusal is supported by its Catholic Ethical and Religious Directives, which allow practitioners to opt out of procedures they morally oppose.
By: Daniel Payne
Covenant Health in Alberta is significantly reliant on private staffing agencies to fill nursing roles, paying nearly $110 per hour for registered nurses, which is more than double the top wage for unionized nurses. This has led to the projection that Covenant will have spent over $20 million on private nursing contracts from April 2022 to April 2025. The high costs are partly due to shortages in recruiting and retaining skilled health professionals, with Covenant spending considerably more than budgeted across several healthcare facilities.
By: Jeremy Appel
Following its merger with Catholic Health Initiatives in 2021, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has implemented significant changes, including the closure of its only birth center in Seattle and revisions to employee insurance that will no longer cover abortions and vasectomies. These decisions have narrowed reproductive health options and sparked concerns among staff and the community, emphasizing the restrictive nature of religious healthcare directives. The merger has led to a reduction in services traditionally available in secular institutions, affecting access to care and aligning more closely with Catholic ethical guidelines, despite legal protections for such services in Washington state. The move reflects a broader trend of healthcare consolidation impacting service availability and choice, particularly in areas like reproductive and maternity care.
By: Elizabeth Troutman Mitchell
The article critiques the secularization of healthcare, arguing it often overlooks the dignity of individuals created in God's image. It highlights the role of Catholic healthcare in addressing this issue by promoting a holistic approach that respects each person's full humanity. The piece references the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson to underscore dissatisfaction with impersonal health systems dominated by insurance interests. Figures like Dr. Kristin Collier and Louis Brown advocate for healthcare that integrates spiritual and physical care, emphasizing personal encounters with the Divine and a community-based model through initiatives like the Curo Foundation.
By: Jason Adkins