Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Catholic healthcare workers and medical providers in the Archdiocese of Louisville are encouraged to join a newly established local chapter of the Catholic Medical Association. The association's mission is "forming and supporting current and future physicians to live and promote the principles of the Catholic Faith in the science and practice of medicine," as stated on its website, cathmed.org.

Dr. Eliot Bassett, a Catholic physician based in Louisville, is spearheading this initiative. He expressed his hope that the chapter will support not only physicians but all healthcare professionals. "I really wanted to do something that was open to all healthcare providers," he mentioned during a recent phone interview. Bassett noted that the association has been instrumental in helping him "integrate my faith into what I do as a physician."

Bassett emphasized that integrating faith into professional life can be fulfilling for healthcare providers, saying it prevents them from having "faith in one lane and working in one lane." He added, "The more I am able to do that, it makes me feel whole."

Addressing challenges faced by medical providers today, such as issues like physician-assisted suicide and honoring the dignity of life, Bassett remarked that Catholics should not have to choose between being "excellent" Catholics or "excellent" providers. "It's not any kind of either-or. We are called to do excellence in both," he said.

The association plays a role in guiding providers through these challenges by setting standards for medical ethics as medicine evolves. It empowers healthcare workers to advance their careers while maintaining their Catholic values.

Bassett shared how his involvement with the association and attendance at its national conference have influenced his approach toward patients. He now strives to "see each patient as Christ," describing this perspective shift as eye-opening.

Similar to its national counterpart, the local chapter plans to host mini-retreats for medical professionals. These events will provide opportunities for fellowship, prayer, discussions on healthcare-related topics, and Mass services. They aim to offer participants time for reflection and deeper engagement with their faith.

The inaugural meeting of the chapter is scheduled for March 29 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., taking place at O’Brien Hall within St. Louis Bertrand Church. Interested individuals can register or seek further information by contacting Dr. Bassett at eliotbassett@gmail.com.