Unsolicited Prayer to patients by Migrant Healthcare Practitioners: A Medico-Legal and Ethical Perspective
Abstract
Olatunji Olaleye
In recent years, several migrant healthcare practitioners in the United Kingdom have reportedly faced disciplinary action, dismissal from employment or deportation from the country for unsolicited prayers for patients. These incidents occur despite the fact that many patients and healthcare workers have reported finding comfort in prayer, which may also support individuals and families in coping with illness or significant life events. The question of whether healthcare workers should pray with or for patients remains the subject of ongoing debate within the broader landscape of spiritual care in clinical settings. This is against the backdrop of research finding which indicates that nurses are frequently asked by patients to offer them prayer or provide them with spiritual support as part of holistic care [1,2].