The biomedical model U3 AOS2 Flashcards
What happened to life expectancy in Australia during the health transition?
Life expectancy increased as people began living longer.
What is meant by a ‘health transition’?
A health transition refers to the shift from high rates of infectious diseases to higher rates of lifestyle-related diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Why did patterns of disease and illness change in Australia?
With infectious diseases being controlled, chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer became the leading causes of death.
Why was cleaning the physical environment no longer enough?
Emerging lifestyle-related diseases required a focus on individuals’ behaviours and choices, not just environmental improvements.
What is the biomedical model of health also known as?
It is sometimes referred to as the “band-aid” or “quick fix” approach.
What does the biomedical model of health focus on?
It focuses on the physical or biological aspects of disease and illness.
What is the main aim of the biomedical model?
To diagnose and treat illness or disease once symptoms are present.
What role does technology play in the biomedical model?
Technology is used to diagnose and treat diseases, often involving medical professionals, hospitals, and equipment.
Who is the focus of the biomedical approach?
The individual who is ill, rather than the population as a whole.
Why is the biomedical model often called a “quick fix” approach?
Because it treats symptoms and conditions once they appear, rather than addressing underlying causes.
Who provides services in the biomedical model of health?
Doctors, specialists, and hospitals are the main providers of care.
How does funding in the biomedical model improve health outcomes?
It supports advancements in medical technology and research, leading to better diagnosis and treatment options.
How does the biomedical model contribute to the treatment of illness?
It enables many illnesses and conditions to be effectively treated or managed.
How does the biomedical model affect life expectancy?
It helps to extend life expectancy by treating life-threatening conditions.
How does the biomedical model impact quality of life?
It improves quality of life and health-adjusted life expectancy by managing chronic conditions and reducing symptoms.
Why is the biomedical model considered costly?
It relies on expensive technology and highly trained health professionals.
How does the biomedical model fall short in promoting health?
It focuses on treating illness rather than preventing it or promoting good health and wellbeing.
Can the biomedical model treat every health condition?
No — not all conditions can be treated or cured using the biomedical approach
Why might the biomedical model not be accessible to everyone?
It can be unaffordable, especially for individuals without private health insurance or access to public health services.
