Implementing spiritual care at the end of life: Portugal

Portugal has a resident population of 10,374,822 inhabitants.1 In 2011, 95.40% of the population considered themselves to have a religion, and 81% of them identified as Catholic.1 In this mainly Catholic country, the religious chaplain, whether Catholic or from another denomination, is considered a valuable resource in attending spiritual and religious needs. Nonetheless, there is a need to strengthen the competencies of all healthcare professionals (HCPs) in being able to deliver spiritual care for patients and their families at the end of life.