BY DIRECTOR OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, Sara Hergic-Sehovic, LPC, MBA

The holy month of Ramadan is a significant time for our Muslim patients, neighbors, and community members. It is a time of fasting, spiritual reflection, community, and increased devotion for millions around the world.

During this time, those observing the holiday may need to adjust their daily routines and dietary habits to meet the obligations of Ramadan. I encourage our communities to be mindful of ways we can support those celebrating Ramadan.

As an organization committed to providing compassionate care to all individuals, it's essential that our staff recognize and respect the cultural and religious diversity of those we serve.

Here are a few ways NHC will support our Muslim patients during Ramadan:

Awareness: We are educating our staff about the significance of Ramadan and its potential impact on patient care. Understanding the basics of fasting and its implications can help us provide more empathetic and tailored support.

Flexible Scheduling: Whenever possible, we try to accommodate appointments and procedures outside of fasting hours to minimize disruption to patients' observance of Ramadan.

Medication Management: We work closely with patients who may need adjustments to their medication schedules during Ramadan. Some medications may need to be taken at specific times or with food, which may require modification during fasting hours.

Culturally Sensitive Care: We encourage our staff to be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities when delivering care, including respecting patients' preferences regarding modesty, privacy, and dietary restrictions.

Communication: We are opening communication channels with our Muslim patients to understand their individual needs and concerns during Ramadan. We are also encouraging them to voice any challenges they may encounter in maintaining their healthcare routines during this time.

By embracing diversity and proactively addressing the needs of our Muslim patients during Ramadan, we demonstrate our commitment to providing inclusive and patient-centered care.

At NHC, we are working together to ensure that all individuals feel valued and supported in their healthcare journey, regardless of their cultural or religious background.