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What is Catholic Health Care?

Catholic health care is a ministry of the church continuing Jesus' mission of love and healing today. Catholic health care providers are rooted in the belief that every life is a sacred gift and every human being a unity of body, mind and spirit.
Staffed by people of diverse faiths and backgrounds, Catholic health ministry organizations provide compassionate care and promote wellness for all persons and communities, with special attention to those who are poor, underserved and vulnerable.
In 2006, Catholic hospitals across the country contributed more than $5.7 billion in services identified as community benefits - that is, services that provide treatment and promote health and healing in response to a community need.
Catholic health care serves all 50 states and the District of Columbia, employing more than 700,000 full- and part-time workers. More than 5.5 million patients were admitted to Catholic health facilities in 2005.

What will the Catholic health ministry do to move reform forward?

Continue to lead and work in coalitions focused on creating a health care system that works for everyone and promotes the health of the national community.
Facilitate the Catholic health ministry's evaluation of health reform proposals.
Invite lawmakers and local leaders to participate in community dialogue on how best to approach systemic reform; engage the U.S. public in clarifying its vision for health care and facing the implications of values and priorities.