Abstract · The author follows the changes in use and meaning of total pain/suffering phrase in the past five decades in the literature. Listing the national health and social environment factors which influence (mostly enhance) the patient’s suffering, structural, functional and financing recommendations are proposed. The most important diagnostic and growing therapeutic possibilities are gathered in this review which help the caregivers to understand, recognize, measure and alleviate non-physical suffering. Special needs of sick children, caregiving family and team members are not discussed here.

Abstract · In this study I present clinical pastoral care both as a service supporting the spiritual well-being of patients, relatives and health-care professionals as well as a service aiding the inner struggles of patients with their illness-induced crisis situations. I demonstrate the justification of this health care service and I provide an insight into the duties and applied methodology of clinical pastoral care professionals. When discussing the connection between hospice and clinical pastoral care I address the role of clinical pastoral care in end-of-life care services, the possibilities of a closer future collaboration between the two services as well as those components of the hospice approach that may be exemplar and useful in the further development of clinical pastoral care services for non-terminal state patients.