Episode 1: Maximizing Rabbi/Physician Communication
Description
In this episode of Refuah & Psak, Rabbi Brody speaks with Rabbi Dr. Aaron Glatt, Ematai rabbinic advisory board member and Chairman of Medicine and Chief of Infectious Diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau, and a medical halacha authority—about how rabbis can most effectively communicate with physicians to guide families through complex medical situations.
Rabbi Glatt emphasizes the rabbi’s multifaceted role: providing comfort and pastoral support, helping families navigate halachic decisions, and ensuring unity by clarifying in advance which rav should be consulted to avoid conflict. They explore strategies for involving all stakeholders, addressing differing religious orientations, obtaining accurate medical facts directly from doctors, and knowing when to consult more specialized poskim. From both rabbinic and medical perspectives, they stress respectful collaboration with healthcare teams, understanding hospital protocols, and advocating firmly yet diplomatically when halachic guidance differs from medical norms. The conversation blends practical scenarios, halachic principles, and relationship-building tips to help rabbis protect patient dignity, maintain shalom bayis, and achieve the best outcomes for congregants.






