Dignity in the Details: Why Hospitality Matters in Healthcare
“Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
—Philippians 4:8
At some point, everyone walks into the healthcare system. What an opportunity to share not only medicine—but dignity, beauty, and even the Gospel of Life.
We all long to feel loved, seen, known, and delighted in. And healthcare should be the very place where those longings are honored.
Lessons from Chick-fil-A, Disney, and Southwest
The hospitality industry gets this. Businesses have built entire reputations around making people feel special.
Chick-fil-A: A simple “My pleasure” makes people feel seen.
Disney: Cast members invite you into the story so you feel known.
Country Clubs: Staff remember your name and your family so you feel you belong.
Southwest Airlines: Humor and humanity make you feel delighted in.
If restaurants, airlines, and theme parks can build systems around hospitality, shouldn’t healthcare—where life, trust, and vulnerability are on the line—do even more?
The Contrast
Too often, though, the experience looks different:
A clipboard shoved under glass with no eye contact.
A waiting room that smells like burnt coffee and left over tuna lunch.
Plastic chairs squeaking like rubber ducks.
The infamous paper towel gown that covers nothing.
An impersonal transaction AKA an “exam”
These details may seem “normal,” but they are not dignified.
What Could It Look Like Instead?
Imagine instead:
Grounded in Creation – Warm spaces with wood floors, natural light, and beauty that reflect God’s handiwork. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
Living Water Moments – A kind welcome, by name, and an offer of water. “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.” (John 4:14)
Robes and Sheets with Dignity – Coverings that actually preserve comfort and honor. “I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:36)
Beauty that Reflects God – Music, scents, and art that bring peace. “Whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)
Stories That Matter – A wall of patient stories reminding us that every person is more than a chart. “I have called you by name; you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)
Because the details matter. They tell people: You are made in the image of God. You are worth the extra effort. You belong here.
A Quiet Revolution
In the end, sometimes the miracle is medicine. Sometimes, the miracle is presence.
Hospitality in healthcare may seem like a small thing—but it’s actually a quiet revolution. A way of saying, in every smile, every remembered name, every moment of eye contact:
“I’m so glad you’re here.”
That’s dignity in the details.