Medical Model vs. Social Model

Attribute	Medical Model	Social Model
View of Disability	Views disability as a medical problem that needs to be fixed or cured.	Views disability as a social construct that is created by barriers in society.
Focus	Focuses on the individual's impairment or condition.	Focuses on the environment and societal barriers that limit participation.
Treatment	Emphasizes medical interventions, therapies, and treatments.	Emphasizes removing barriers, promoting inclusion, and advocating for social change.
Role of the Individual	Passive recipient of treatment and care.	Active participant in advocating for their rights and inclusion.

Introduction

When it comes to understanding and addressing health issues, two prominent models are often discussed: the Medical Model and the Social Model. Both models offer different perspectives on health and illness, and each has its own set of attributes that shape how individuals are treated and supported. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the Medical Model and the Social Model to better understand their differences and implications.

Medical Model

The Medical Model of health focuses on the biological aspects of illness and disease. It views health problems as primarily stemming from physiological abnormalities or malfunctions within the body. In this model, the emphasis is on diagnosing and treating the specific symptoms or conditions that a person presents with. Medical professionals, such as doctors and specialists, play a central role in this model, as they are responsible for identifying and managing the individual's health issues.

One of the key attributes of the Medical Model is its reliance on medical interventions, such as medications, surgeries, and other medical procedures, to address health problems. The model is based on the belief that these interventions can effectively treat or manage the symptoms of illness and restore the individual to a state of health. Additionally, the Medical Model often prioritizes the use of evidence-based practices and treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective in addressing specific health conditions.

Another attribute of the Medical Model is its focus on individual responsibility for health. In this model, individuals are seen as responsible for their own health outcomes, and are expected to adhere to medical advice and treatment plans in order to improve their health. The Medical Model places a strong emphasis on personal behaviors, such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices, as factors that can influence an individual's health status.

Furthermore, the Medical Model tends to view disability as a personal tragedy or deficit that needs to be fixed or cured. It often places the burden of disability on the individual, rather than considering the social and environmental factors that may contribute to disability. This perspective can lead to stigmatization and discrimination against individuals with disabilities, as they may be seen as less capable or valuable members of society.

Overall, the Medical Model is characterized by its focus on the biological aspects of health, its reliance on medical interventions, its emphasis on individual responsibility for health, and its tendency to view disability as a personal deficit.

Social Model

In contrast to the Medical Model, the Social Model of health takes a broader view of health and illness, considering the social, environmental, and political factors that influence an individual's health status. This model recognizes that health is not just determined by biological factors, but is also shaped by social determinants such as income, education, housing, and access to healthcare services. The Social Model emphasizes the importance of addressing these social determinants in order to improve population health outcomes.

One of the key attributes of the Social Model is its focus on social justice and equity in health. This model highlights the need to address systemic inequalities and injustices that contribute to health disparities among different populations. It advocates for policies and interventions that promote health equity and ensure that all individuals have equal access to resources and opportunities that support their health and well-being.

Another attribute of the Social Model is its emphasis on empowerment and participation. This model recognizes the importance of involving individuals in decisions about their own health and well-being, and in shaping the policies and programs that affect their lives. It values the perspectives and experiences of individuals and communities, and seeks to empower them to advocate for their own health needs and rights.

Furthermore, the Social Model views disability as a result of social and environmental barriers that prevent individuals from fully participating in society. It challenges the notion that disability is a personal deficit, and instead focuses on removing barriers and creating inclusive environments that allow individuals with disabilities to fully participate in all aspects of life. This perspective promotes a more inclusive and accepting society that values diversity and recognizes the contributions of all individuals.

Overall, the Social Model is characterized by its focus on social determinants of health, its emphasis on social justice and equity, its promotion of empowerment and participation, and its view of disability as a result of social barriers.

Comparison

When comparing the attributes of the Medical Model and the Social Model, it is clear that they offer distinct perspectives on health and illness. The Medical Model focuses on the biological aspects of health, medical interventions, individual responsibility, and a deficit-based view of disability. In contrast, the Social Model takes a broader view of health, emphasizing social determinants, social justice, empowerment, and a social model of disability.

While the Medical Model has been dominant in healthcare systems for many years, there is growing recognition of the limitations of this model in addressing complex health issues. The Social Model offers a more holistic and inclusive approach to health that considers the broader social and environmental factors that influence health outcomes. By shifting towards a social model of health, healthcare systems can better address health inequities and promote the well-being of all individuals.

In conclusion, both the Medical Model and the Social Model offer valuable insights into health and illness, but they differ in their underlying assumptions, approaches, and implications. By understanding the attributes of each model, we can better appreciate the strengths and limitations of each and work towards a more comprehensive and equitable approach to health and well-being.