The rapid developments in medical science, the timeless changes in the environment and the philosophy of Health, as well as the changes in today's social conditions, which shape how we understand humans and their care in difficult circumstances, compel us to examine - and perhaps to reconsider - the pastoral care we offer to the sick. Furthermore, modern medicine is called upon to address medical-social situations and changes that reveal intense concerns, multiple difficulties, but also countless possibilities. This volume sets out the basic principles for pastoral ministry in the field of Health and for the multidisciplinary collaboration required among all the entities that care for the sick. [Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]