Meet Your HaysMed Chaplain: Chad Pritchett
Offering Comfort and Support When You Need It Most
At HaysMed, we understand that caring for our patients goes beyond physical health; it’s about nurturing the spirit and providing comfort in times of uncertainty. We’re excited to introduce Chaplain Chad Pritchett, a key part of our compassionate care team. Chad provides spiritual support, a listening ear, and a heart full of empathy to our hospital community.
He’s here for you—offering services that touch the lives of patients, families, and Associates alike.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to become a chaplain?
I am from the great state of Alabama, Roll Tide Roll, and was commissioned in the Army in the Medical Department. Spent twenty years in Military hospitals and deployed twice to Iraq. I was also the Chief of Logistics for several hospitals in the Veteran Affairs. I am married to Tricia for the past 33 years and have four biological children and one adopted. We have six grandchildren with one on the way.
I surrendered to the ministry in 2012 and was selected to be the pastor of Ellis Baptist Church. I was hired to be the PRN Chaplain and knew that the hospital was home for me.
What does your day-to-day role as a chaplain at HaysMed involve?
Each day brings new challenges and adventures. One of my main roles is to check on the staff and patients. Each staff member carries burdens that many are not aware of. By bringing a smile, an encouraging word, going to get coffee for them, or bringing by a snack, the investment in their life nourishes fruit that is seen in their support and love for the patients.
How do you support patients, families, and staff in moments of crisis or need?
Having experienced multiple types of traumas from a war-time environment, to the loss of a parent and grandchild, one of the greatest gifts you can give someone is to listen. By listening and asking the right questions they can process the moment of crisis and come out on the other end knowing that there is a “new normal.” Because of this they then realize that they can handle the new normal and can have strength and encouragement that will help others in their time of need.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a chaplain?
One of the greatest rewards is being able to minister in a patient, family, or staff greatest time of need. I get to see the best and worst in this position. Making a difference each day in someone’s life is a day that is well lived, and I get a chance to do that every day.
How do you approach providing spiritual care in a diverse and inclusive healthcare environment?
One of the greatest challenges today is the diversity we are seeing. Each person’s spiritual needs are as different as they are. There is not a one-size fit all mentality. You must meet them where they are at.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your work at the hospital?
I am still pastoring at Ellis Baptist until we get a full-time pastor hired, but when there is down time, I love to spend time with my wife and family. I enjoy playing golf and especially during this time of the year enjoy watching Alabama play football.
