Spiritual Services have been a vital part of patient care at UI Hospitals and Clinics since 1930. The first chaplain served both the University and the Hospital. As responsibilities at the hospital grew, the hospital became his sole assignment.

Currently, the Department of Spiritual Services is comprised of five full-time and three part-time chaplains, in addition to four chaplains in training.

Spiritual Services is fully integrated into the treatment program of the Hospital:

• Chaplains receive referrals from physicians and nurses as a matter of course
• Participate on interdisciplinary care conferences
• Enter their services into the medical records
• Available for ministry 24 hours every day

Clinical Pastoral Education was introduced to UI Hospitals and Clinics in 1967 when the UI School of Religion hired the Rev. Dr. David Belgum. The hospital was the clinical site for his program. The program has grown to become a vital part of the Department of Spiritual Services, and in 1990, the Department assumed full administrative responsibility for the educational program.

Four residents are considered members of the Department and function cooperatively with the denominational chaplains in ministering spiritual care to UI Hospitals and Clinics's patients.