Conceptualization of Health Peg Bottjen, MT(ASCP)SC Introduction to Health Care

Definition of Health

Four Models of Health Medical Model World Health Organization (WHO) Model Wellness Model Environmental Model Larson JS, The Conceptualization of Health, Medical Care Research & Review, 56:2, June 1999.

Medical Model The absence of disease or disability. Emphasis on treatment, not prevention. Many medical advances with this model.

World Health Organization Model State of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. –What does well-being mean? –Most widely used definition

Wellness Model Health promotion and progress toward higher functioning, energy, comfort, and integration of mind, body, and spirit. –Reserve of health –Increase quality of life –Difficult to measure Mind Body Spirit

Environmental Model Adaption to physical and social surroundings - a balance free from undue pain, discomfort, or disability. –Health is related to stresses and interaction with the environment. –Health balance.

Conclusions Health is conceptualized at many levels. –Personal –Family –Community –World

Conclusions Four models –Medical Model –World Health Organization (WHO) Model –Wellness Model –Environmental Model Health care providers need to determine the health concept of their patients and community.