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01-04-2017 | Philosophical Exploration

The Care of the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Patient

Authors: Ezra Gabbay, Matthew W. McCarthy, Joseph J. Fins

Published in: Journal of Religion and Health | Issue 2/2017

Abstract

The Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community embraces a system of values and a rigorous behavioral code that are deeply rooted in religious tradition and history. Here we describe some of the unique challenges that stem from the encounter between modern medical practice and the Ultra-Orthodox world. Through examples of clinical and ethical scenarios ranging from prenatal care to end-of-life decisions, we illustrate problems related to observance of age-old practices in a modern hospital setting, balancing acceptance of Divine will with standard risk assessment, reconciliation of patient autonomy with deference to rabbinic authority and fear of stigma associated with mental illness in a traditional society. We also offer a generalizable model where inquiry precedes pre-formulated judgment to help clinicians provide enhanced care for this population.

The saying is actually a sophisticated pun on the original identical comment in the Babylonian Talmud (Tractate Kidushin, 38b) regarding the Biblical prohibition to consume grain from seeds that took root after the 16th day of the Hebrew month of Nissan (“new grain”) before the Omer sacrifice on the second day of Passover (the 16th of Nissan of the following year).

The precise practical implications of this difference in approach are extremely nuanced and detailed and are beyond the scope of this text.

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Title: The Care of the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Patient
Authors: Ezra Gabbay
Matthew W. McCarthy
Joseph J. Fins
Publication date: 01-04-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Religion and Health / Issue 2/2017
Print ISSN: 0022-4197
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6571
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-017-0356-6

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The Care of the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Patient

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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