Catholic Ecological Theology and Public Health: Reimagining the Relationship between Creation and Healthcare in the United States
Abstract
Among the major factors that affect public health in the United States are systemic inequities, climate change, and poor physical environment. To address these factors, this article aims at creating a nexus between care for creation and care for humanity. Relying predominantly on the magisterium, interdisciplinary literatures in environmental health and bioethics, it draws inference on how ecological frameworks can provide critical resources for reimagining healthcare systems in the United States. It goes beyond fragmented biomedical model to propose Catholic ecological theology, which is anchored on integral ecology and human dignity. By reimagining healthcare through the lens of Catholic ecological theology, we can achieve better results in healthcare by creating a system that incorporates environment outcomes to the clinical outcomes when tackling health related issues. Drawing from the Catholic social teachings and from the practical experience of Catholic health care institutions, this article demonstrates how ecological theology can inspire sustainable, equitable, and holistic approaches in healthcare.
How to Cite This Article
Justin Chukwunonso Nzekwe STD (2025). Catholic Ecological Theology and Public Health: Reimagining the Relationship between Creation and Healthcare in the United States . Journal of Frontiers in Multidisciplinary Research (JFMR), 6(2), 589-597. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/.JFMR.2025.6.2.589-597