Beyond religion and spirituality: faith in the study and practice of medicine.

Discussions about faith in medicine traditionally have been linked to religion and spirituality. Faith, however, is also that sense of trust or confidence one has in someone or something. As such, it is a concept integral to medical education and practice. This essay explores several dimensions of faith that play significant roles in medicine. It reviews why developing an awareness of faith is important for medical students and practitioners alike, and concludes by suggesting it is by seeking such faith in the profession that medical students and physicians can nurture their personal and professional growth.