Withdrawal of chaplaincy services from hospitals

The essay outlines the legal foundations of chaplaincy services in hospitals, emphasizing that they stem from constitutional guarantees of religious freedom and statutory provisions, including patient rights legislation. Patients are entitled to contact clergy of their denomination, especially in situations of serious illness or life-threatening conditions, and healthcare providers are obligated to facilitate this right. The author highlights that spiritual care constitutes an element of human rights protected under both national and international law. 

The author also discusses solutions adopted in other European countries, where religious support in public institutions, including hospitals, is recognized at the constitutional level. At the same time, he presents proposals from certain political groups advocating the elimination of chaplain positions, justified by financial considerations and the principle of state neutrality in matters of belief. According to the author, such arguments overlook the state’s legal obligations and the rights of patients. 

The further part presents legislative proposals aimed at strengthening the status of chaplains and clarifying the rules governing their work in hospitals. These proposals include defining their rights, ensuring appropriate conditions for performing their duties, and improving patient access to information about available spiritual care. In conclusion, the author argues that removing chaplaincy services would be inconsistent with the Polish Constitution and would constitute a violation of fundamental human rights.