Definition of healthcare
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Definition of Healthcare: Core Concepts and Functions
Healthcare is broadly defined as the maintenance or improvement of health through the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, amelioration, or cure of disease, illness, injury, and other physical and mental impairments in people. It is delivered by a wide range of professionals, including those in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, psychology, and allied health fields. Healthcare encompasses primary, secondary, and tertiary care, as well as public health initiatives, and is influenced by social, economic, and policy factors that affect access and outcomes 125.
Healthcare as a System, Industry, and Social Institution
Healthcare is recognized as a complex system that functions as an industry, a set of institutions, and a key social sphere. Its structure and delivery are shaped by national policies, economic development, and cultural values. The organization of healthcare aims to provide accessible, affordable, and effective medical care, which is essential for the well-being and stability of societies 457.
Key Attributes of Healthcare Quality
Quality in healthcare is defined by several core attributes: effectiveness, safety, a culture of excellence, and the achievement of desired health outcomes. High-quality healthcare is safe, timely, effective, equitable, efficient, people-centered, and accessible. These attributes are essential for improving health outcomes and maintaining public trust in healthcare systems 369.
Evolving Perspectives and Holistic Approaches
The meaning of healthcare is evolving, with increasing recognition of the need for holistic and humanized definitions that go beyond the traditional biomedical model. Modern approaches emphasize the importance of addressing physical, mental, and social well-being, as well as adapting to environmental and societal changes. This shift calls for collaboration across sectors and the inclusion of diverse community perspectives to promote health equity and transformation 7810.
Conclusion
Healthcare is a multifaceted concept involving the organized delivery of services aimed at maintaining and improving health. It is shaped by professional practice, social structures, and evolving definitions of health and quality. Effective healthcare systems are characterized by accessibility, safety, effectiveness, and a commitment to holistic well-being, reflecting both local and global priorities for individual and public health 1359.
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