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PSYCOSOCIAL MEDICINE HAS NO PART TO PLAY IN PODIATRY PRACTICE
INTRODUCTION
The definition of health is well described by the World Health Organisation (1946) ‘Health is a state of complete, physical, mental and social well being; and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. ... The bio-psychosocial model of illness and disease is offered as an alternative to the predominant bio-medical model. ... Unlike the bio-medical model, which separates body and mind, the bio-psychosocial model is an holistic perspective, in that mind and body are seen as inextricably intertwined. ...
Discussion
In 1977, George Engel, professor of psychiatry and medicine at the University of Rochester, wrote a paper published in Science called "The Need for a New Medical Model: A Challenge for Biomedicine." Engel contended that medicine was in a crisis that derived from adherence to an outdated model of disease. He developed an argument for a biopsychosocial model of illness and disease, arguing that exclusion of psychosocial factors distorted perspectives and even interfered with patient care.
The components of the bio-psychosocial are listed as:
Biological: Referring to the medical or physical aspects. ... No well-informed physician today can doubt that psychosocial factors impact a patients health and response to care. ... Engel (1977) encouraged us to consider how the psychosocial environment impacts human health and to incorporate those factors routinely into medical practice. ... The connection between body and mind has long been recognised. Nevertheless the bio-medical model has in the past prevailed despite this knowledge.
The holistic approach to treating patients has its obvious benefits and pitfalls, the benefits of a Bio-psychosocial approach is to establish the patients life style and attitudes in relation to their presenting complaint in order to effect any non- medical change which may facilitate an improvement in their condition. The constraints of time in a busy practice are one of the pitfalls as is the emotional burden placed upon the practitioner when discussing delicate matters with their patients. ... The work of the practitioner within this relationship includes organising information about the patient and his or her care, providing comprehensive bio-medical care and critically reflecting on his or her practice to increase self-awareness.
Approximate Word count = 1715
Approximate Pages = 6.9
(250 words per page double spaced)
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