Caring for Patients Observing Religious Fasts

This guide is a resource for clinicians at Valley who care for patients who are fasting to celebrate the Muslim tradition of Ramadan or the Great Holy Lent of the Ethiopian Greek Orthodox Church, or faiths. Every individual has their own unique relationship with spiritual, religious and cultural practices. We recommend that you lead with cultural humility, and to be curious and kind when learning more about patients, their beliefs and practices.

General Recommendations for Healthcare Providers:

• Practice cultural humility and engage in open, respectful discussions with patients about their beliefs and practices.
• Be vigilant in adjusting care and monitoring for fasting patients, taking into account the individual's health status and any potential risks associated with fasting.
• Offer support and accommodations for religious observances within healthcare settings. Valley’s Prayer & Reflection Room is located on the 2^nd floor of the main hospital, by the fountain area in between the Birth Center and 2W and is unlocked from 8 AM to 8 PM. This sacred space includes a smaller room for those who might like more privacy during their time of prayer. All patients, families, and staff are welcomed. For overnight access, please call security at ext. 1262.  
• Remind patients of the exemptions available to them and encourage those at risk to consider these options.

For Patients Observing Ramadan (Feb. 28-Mar. 30, 2025):

• Fasting Period: Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food and drink.
• Preparation: Encourage patients to discuss medication adjustments with their healthcare provider before Ramadan. Consider scheduling visits with a primary care provider and dietitian.
• Medical Considerations: Adjust medication schedules for diabetics. Be mindful of the impact of fasting on procedures such as blood draws, anticoagulation regimens, breastfeeding, surgeries, and other medical procedures.
• Health Monitoring: Encourage frequent monitoring for patients choosing to fast, especially those with chronic conditions or who are fragile.
• Fasting Exemptions: Remind patients of fasting exemptions for those who are sick, pregnant, nursing, or traveling.
• Support in Healthcare Settings: Provide support for prayer and religious observance within healthcare facilities.
• For more information visit EthnoMed

For Patients Observing Ethiopian Orthodox Lent (Mar. 3-Apr. 19):

• Fasting Period: Lasts 55 days, with total abstention from meat, dairy products, and eggs. Only one meal a day is eaten, in the evening or after 3 PM.
• Medical Implications: Medication schedules may be impacted, particularly for those requiring multiple daily doses. Chronic illnesses may be harder to control.
• Health Monitoring: Engage in discussions about the risk of fasting and encourage individualized care and frequent monitoring for those choosing to fast.
• Fasting Exemptions: The Ethiopian Orthodox Church provides exemptions for the sick, travelers, and the weak. Referral to the Head Priest for counseling may be necessary for those at risk.
•  See related resources on EthnoMed​