Models of health and health promotion

The language of health: some key words Diagnosis: identification of a disease or illness through medical observation of signs and symptoms, the patient’s history and tests Intervention: any action to improve health or cure illness including the use of medication, hospitalisation or surgery Prevention: any action to reduce or eliminate the onset, causes, complications or recurrence of disease or illness

What is a health model? Models of health are ‘conceptual frameworks’ or ways of thinking about health Three such models are: The Biomedical Model of Health The Social Model of Health The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion

The biomedical model of health Key principles of this model: Focuses on ‘ill health’ Healthcare is a response to a ‘breakdown’ of the body The absence of disease is synonymous with health Each disease has a specific cause that acts upon the body

More key principles of this model: Body is seen in isolation from social and environmental factors This approach includes the use of medical technologies, pathology, laboratory testing, medication, surgery and hospitalisation

The social model of health Key principles of this model: Addresses the social and environmental determinants of health, not just the biomedical Differences in health status are linked to gender, culture, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, working conditions, unemployment, housing end environment

More key principles of this model: Health is not just the responsibility of the health sector – change requires collaboration Aims to reduce inequality Empowers individuals and communities to act for themselves All people have the basic right to access affordable health care

The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion Key principles of this model: Eight key prerequisites for health Peace Shelter Education Food Income Stable ecosystem Sustainable resources Social justice and equity

More key principles of this model: The Charter identifies 3 basic strategies for health promotion Advocate Enable Mediate

More key principles of this model: The Charter identifies 5 key action areas Build healthy public policy Create supportive environments Strengthen community action Develop personal skills Reorient health service