Integration of Islamic principles in healthcare delivery: a narrative review

Authors

  • Sarah Shakina Suhaimey Kulliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia.
  • Sanisah Saidi Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Kulliyyah of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia.
  • Nazri Mohd Yusof Department of Orthopaedic, Traumatology and Rehabilitation Kulliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31436/ijohs.v6i2.351

Keywords:

clinical, Muslim, medical emergency, religion, shariah-compliant

Abstract

The integration of Islamic principles in healthcare services offers several benefits. This approach fosters a more inclusive healthcare environment by recognizing and respecting the cultural and religious values of both Muslim and non-Muslim patients. However, the extent to which Islamic principles have been integrated into healthcare services remains unclear. This review aims to collate and analyse existing evidence on the implementation of Islamic principles within the healthcare delivery system. Relevant literature was identified through databases including IIUM Research Repositories (IREP), ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, SCOPUS, ProQuest, Emerald, PubMed, and BMJ. Search terms included combinations of the following keywords: Clinical, Shariah-compliant, Muslim, Religion, Medical, Muslim-friendly, Cultural competence, and Spiritual care, using Boolean operators “AND” and “OR.” The search was limited to articles published in English, Malay, and Indonesian. Each article was reviewed, and relevant information extracted from them was incorporated into this review. The review found that integrating Islamic principles into healthcare services is complex and influenced by various factors, including understanding religious beliefs, adherence to Islamic teachings, and the interaction of cultural norms within healthcare. Three key components related to Islamic healthcare services were identified: (a) global healthcare service management, (b) patient satisfaction with service delivery, and (c) the behaviour of healthcare professionals. In conclusion, there remain gaps and disparities in integrating Islamic principles into healthcare services. Further research is recommended to explore the integration of Islamic principles in healthcare services globally.

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Published

2025-07-31

How to Cite

Suhaimey, S. S., Saidi, S., & Mohd Yusof, N. . (2025). Integration of Islamic principles in healthcare delivery: a narrative review. IIUM Journal of Orofacial and Health Sciences, 6(2), 225–235. https://doi.org/10.31436/ijohs.v6i2.351