The rapid developments in medical science, the timeless changes in the environment and philosophy of Health, as well as the changes in today's social conditions, which shape how we understand the human being and the care provided in difficult circumstances, compel us to examine - and perhaps reconsider - the pastoral care we offer to the sick.

Furthermore, modern medicine is called upon to address sociomedical situations and changes that reveal intense concerns, multiple difficulties, but also countless possibilities.

This volume establishes the basic principles for the pastoral ministry in the field of Health and for the interdisciplinary cooperation required among all entities caring for the sick.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]