Theories of health and disability: biomedical model

Overview of Biomedical Model

The biomedical model is a traditional, western approach to health and disability that centralises on the idea that health issues are purely biologically based.
It tends to focus on disease processes, viewed through a narrowly defined pathological lens, treating the body as a machine that can be fixed with medical interventions.
The model assumes that each disease has one underlying cause and that removing this cause leads to the patient’s recovery.

Positives of the Biomedical Model

The model has contributed to many scientific advances such as the discovery of antibiotics and development of vaccines that improved public health significantly.
In focusing solely on biological factors, it has led to the development of precise diagnostic tools and understanding of specific disease causation.
The model has been successful in treating many acute and potentially life-threatening conditions where an immediate remedy is required.

Limitations of Biomedical Model

Critics argue that the biomedical model overlooks the psychological, environmental and social influences on health.
It has been criticised for its reductionist approach, which simplifies health issues to their smallest possible component, ignoring the complexity of human health.
The model predominantly views health in a negative light – as the absence of disease – and does not take into consideration an individual’s overall wellbeing.

Dependence on Medication

The biomedical model is often linked with a greater reliance on medication as it prioritises medical intervention over lifestyle changes.
This can lead to problems such as the over-prescription of drugs, development of antibiotic resistance, or dependence on medication.

Patient-Doctor Relationship

Within the biomedical model, the patient-doctor relationship is often criticised as unequal and paternalistic.
As the model focuses on disease rather than the individual, the patients’ experiences are often marginalised and they may feel devalued.

In summary, the biomedical model plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating diseases, but its limitations highlight the importance of considering the broader social and psychological aspects of health and disability.