Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What does the biomedical model primarily define health as?

1. Avoidance of illness

2. Absence of disease

3. Promotion of healthy behaviors

4. Protection from illness and disease states

The correct answer is: Absence of disease

The biomedical model primarily defines health as the absence of disease. This model focuses on the biological and physiological aspects of health, emphasizing the role of pathogens and physical dysfunction in determining a person's health status. According to this perspective, if an individual does not have any diseases or physical abnormalities, they are considered healthy. This definition can be contrasted with other models of health that encompass broader dimensions, such as social, psychological, and environmental factors. For example, promoting healthy behaviors and protecting individuals from illness are important aspects of public health but are not the primary focus of the biomedical model. Instead, the biomedical model tends to simplify health to a more narrow framework that seeks to identify and treat diseases rather than encouraging overall well-being or preventive measures.