Doctors and religion, is it possible to believe in God and be a scientist?

Posted On: December 12, 2022

Historically, Medicine and religion were seen as enemies because each analyzed life in a different way.
Through a study it was found that 63% of doctors thought that having religious beliefs helps combat work stress.
Despite the stark differences between science and religion, every healthcare professional is free to choose what they want.

The absolute basis of Medicine is science. In this area, everything has to be demonstrated, but there is also a human aspect that cannot be ignored. Apart from what is taught at the university, human qualities are also important, although sometimes the two aspects seem to be incompatible. Therefore, It’s always difficult to talk about religion, especially when it comes to doctors because the two seem foreign.

In this regard, one of the biggest celebrations in Mexico can be used as an example. This is about The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is celebrated every December 12. It is a very special date for millions of people because of its high gathering rate.

The true power of faith

Every year millions of people come to Mexico City Basilica as a sign of your faith. In most cases, they make long journeys from their point of origin to reach their destination. Their belief was stronger than any physical resistance and in the end they succeeded.

However, Traditionally, it has been asserted that Medicine and religion have been enemies since time immemorial. Everything is caused by differences in how to understand each other’s lives. While one is based on science, the other maintains attachment to the sacred. Although in the end these types of obstacles are not necessarily opposed because both can be practiced.

Do doctors practice a religion?

Becoming a health professional does not necessarily preclude the practice of any religion. You can have both beliefs, even though they may seem like contradictions to some. In this regard, the Medscape platform conducted a study entitled Report on the quality of life and professional burnout of doctors. More than 500 doctors from Western countries such as Spain, England and the United States participated in the work focusing on spiritual beliefs. What it got was nine percent saying they believed in God.

Interestingly, 63 percent said having a religious belief helps the battle work stress. In the same way, it is explained that it does not necessarily refer to believing in miracles or a higher being, but simply believing in something. This is especially interesting given the high levels of mental fatigue and anxiety that exist in this profession.

Meanwhile, 49 percent claimed to have religious or spiritual beliefs. In contrast, 39 percent said they had none specifically. While the rest chose not to answer the question.

Ultimately, despite the stark differences between science and religion, every healthcare professional is free to choose what they want. In the same way, as a doctor, you must adhere to the basic principles of offering services to all patients equally, regardless of their way of thinking or disagreement of ideas. The desire to serve and help must be greater than any difference.

It is undeniable that in some matters such as abortion or the right to a dignified death there are different perspectives; However, it should also be emphasized that despite having different ways of thinking, in a civilized society everyone should have their own place.