A documentary set at Alameda Health System’s (AHS) Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus will debut at the 68th annual San Francisco International Film Festival. Directed by AHS physician and filmmaker Dr. Jessica Zitter, “The Chaplain & The Doctor” follows AHS Chaplain Betty Clark and Dr. Zitter as they treat patients at the safety-net hospital and trauma center in Oakland, CA.
Chaplain Betty and Dr. Zitter are an unlikely pair; the work of chaplains and doctors do not overlap in most hospitals. Dr. Zitter is a pulmonologist trained to treat physical illness with science and medicine. Chaplain Clark is a spiritual advisor and confidante best known for singing with patients to lift their spirits. But with time, the two women’s shared values and history overcome the forces that keep them apart, and they go on to do their best work together. “The Chaplain & The Doctor” models a new kind of care, one that honors both spirit and body, the diverse backgrounds of patients, and the most human needs we all share.
“The Chaplain & The Doctor tells a story that is both universal and deeply reflective of Alameda Health System. We all know that health is more than medicine; it is also spiritual, emotional, and social. Yet, too often, health care fails to affirm the full humanity of both patients and providers. Together, Dr. Jessica Zitter and Chaplain Betty Clark bring more compassionate and comprehensive care to our patients than they would alone. Their collaboration is an example of Alameda Health System at its best, and I don’t think this film could have been made anywhere else,” said James Jackson, CEO of Alameda Health System, the health system that includes the Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus.
Dr. Zitter began filming “The Chaplain & The Doctor” at Alameda Health System in 2018. Over the course of seven years, she captured a rare look at the real-life dramas that unfold in a public health system that serves the communities most impacted by health inequities and racism.
“This film was born out of my love for Highland Hospital and my friendship with Betty, who is adored by so many at Highland and the broader community. Betty has helped me understand the critical importance of ‘getting the story’ from every patient instead of relying on the labels and judgments so prevalent in medical culture. She has absolutely made me a better doctor,” said Dr. Zitter.
“The Chaplain & The Doctor” will debut at The Marina Theater on April 21. A second showing is on April 23 at The Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA). Tickets and information available here.
About Alameda Health System
Alameda Health System (AHS) is a leading safety-net, integrated health care provider and medical training institution recognized for its world-class patient and family-centered care. AHS provides comprehensive medical treatment, health promotion and disease prevention throughout our integrated network of hospitals, clinics and health services. AHS includes three acute care hospitals, an affiliate acute care hospital, a psychiatric hospital, four ambulatory care wellness centers, five post-acute facilities, and the only adult Level 1 Trauma Center and psychiatric emergency department in Alameda County. AHS is committed to promoting wellness and optimizing the health of the community through the mission of caring, healing, teaching and serving all. For more information, visit AlamedaHealthSystem.org.
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CONTACT: Eleanor Ajala
Manager, Media and Communications
Alameda Health System
(510) 421-9222
eajala@alamedahealthsystem.org