Faith and religious beliefs in an outpatient military population.

BACKGROUND: This study of outpatients at a military medical center seeks to evaluate the extent that this population relies on religion and spirituality to cope with health-related stress. This study also assesses outpatients' desire for spiritual intervention in the context of their medical appointments.

METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a convenience sample of 670 outpatients presenting at a military medical center.

RESULTS: The majority of respondents endorsed a Christian religious affiliation (87%), a belief in God (91%), and attendance at religious services at least a few times a month (53%). Respondents who were male, younger than age 43, and on active duty were significantly less likely to attend religious services, believe in God (or a 'higher power'), or rely on religion or spirituality to cope with illness. Outpatients presenting for procedures or treatments were more likely to desire prayer or other religious intervention, as compared to patients who had regular clinic appointments.

CONCLUSIONS: Compared to the general US population, a higher percentage of this patient population believes in God (91% vs. 78%), attends religious services once a week or more (42% vs. 30%), and endorses a Christian religious affiliation (87% vs. 73%). Because one-third of the surveyed outpatients desired prayer or other religious support, we concluded that all outpatients should be explicitly notified of the pastoral care and counseling services that are available for them.