Sociology

Sociology

Introduction

The global community can be defined as an amalgamation of diverse cultures. The daily lives of the individuals belonging to different religions are heavily influenced by factors such as religious beliefs, traditions, values and societal rules. In the modern world, people belonging to different religious backgrounds are no longer isolated by geographical boundaries. The cosmopolitan outlook of the contemporary society has presented several challenges for the health care providers (Sloan, 2008). Health care is not only a function of providing medicine; rather it involves forming a positive relationship with the customers. Certain religions have very strict regulations regarding the health care practices amongst its followers. These religions prohibit activities such as taking certain medicines; as it may be against their religious fundamentals.

The health care providers thus have a very difficult task of providing the necessary medical care to individuals from diverse religious backgrounds. They have to find a way to administer the required care with the due consent of the patient, in a timely manner. If the attending health care provider is not aware of the religious implications of the patient, several dilemmas might arise. This situation will delay the administration of the health care activities, and worsen the condition of the injury or disease. The traditional approach of health care has to be changed as per the contemporary environment. When dealing with the religious individuals, health care providers need to apply innovative strategies such as taking the help of religious leaders; to relieve the patients of their religious duties, so that they can receive the prescribed medication, can be employed by the health care providers. In the case of fasting among the Muslims and Hindus, this activity can help the health care providers to save the lives of these patients. The health care providers cannot in any circumstance look to provide any form of health care, without the due consent of the patient. The ethical guidelines that influence the behavior of all care providers, legally bound them to disclose all relevant information, and get the patient approval before any medical procedure. In the modern health care environment, the care providers cannot rely on their medical knowledge alone to facilitate the patients, as the also need to have a comprehensive knowledge regarding the diverse cultures and religions in the society.

Thesis Statement

In the modern health care environment, the care providers need to develop a comprehensive knowledge base regarding the diverse religions in the society. The effectiveness of the health care practices depends on their ability to relate with the patient and get his appropriate consent.

Discussion

Health care for Buddhist Patients

Buddhism is a religion that is based on the spirituality of an individual (Sulmasy, 2006). It has a direct influence on all aspects of life, as it views the human soul as a harmonious part if the natural ecosystem (James & Keown, 1995). Harmony is an essential concept of Buddhism, and it's followers strictly adhere to these teachings. Buddhists commonly lead a very humble life style which is free of materialistic desire and ...