Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which health system model emphasizes treatment and diagnosis of illnesses?

1. Primary health care.

2. Medical model care.

3. Holistic care.

4. Preventative care.

The correct answer is: Medical model care.

The medical model care is focused primarily on the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and diseases. This model operates on the premise that health issues should be identified, understood, and treated through a clinical lens. It emphasizes the role of medical professionals in diagnosing conditions and prescribing treatments to address specific health problems. This approach often involves looking at the physiological and biological aspects of health, where interventions are designed to cure or manage symptoms effectively. In contrast, primary health care encompasses a broader approach that integrates health promotion, disease prevention, and community participation, rather than concentrating solely on treatment. Holistic care takes into account the whole person, considering emotional, social, and spiritual needs alongside physical health, rather than focusing strictly on illnesses. Preventative care is aimed at preventing diseases and maintaining health before illnesses arise, which similarly deviates from the treatment-centered focus of the medical model. Together, these models represent different perspectives and approaches to healthcare, but the medical model distinctly emphasizes immediate intervention to address specific health issues through diagnosis and treatment.