Discuss how the evolution of health definitions has affected our understanding of whether a person with a chronic condition can be considered "healthy". (5 marks)
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*PEEL – Solution is structured using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
- [P] On one hand, traditional definitions excluded chronic condition sufferers.
- [E] This created a binary view of health status.
- [Ev] Before 1948, anyone with diabetes or arthritis was automatically labelled “unhealthy”.
- [L] This approach offered clear medical categories but limited understanding of wellbeing.
- [P] From another angle, modern definitions enable inclusion.
- [E] This allows people with chronic conditions to be considered healthy.
- [Ev] WHO’s “resource for everyday life” approach means someone managing asthma can be healthy if they maintain quality of life.
- [L] This creates opportunities for positive health identity despite ongoing conditions.
- [P] Supporters argue this evolution promotes holistic care.
- [E] It encourages focus on function over diagnosis.
- [Ev] A person with controlled epilepsy who works, exercises and socialises demonstrates health across multiple dimensions.
- [L] This broader view supports better treatment approaches.
- [P] Critics contend it may minimise medical needs.
- [E] This could reduce urgency for treatment.
- [Ev] Emphasising coping abilities might overshadow the real challenges of chronic illness management.
- [L] Despite benefits, this raises concerns about adequate healthcare provision.
Show Worked Solution
*PEEL – Solution is structured using separate PEEL methods for each side of the argument; [P] Identify the point, [E] expand on the point with a link to question asked, [Ev] apply evidence/examples, [L] linking sentence back to question.
- [P] On one hand, traditional definitions excluded chronic condition sufferers.
- [E] This created a binary view of health status.
- [Ev] Before 1948, anyone with diabetes or arthritis was automatically labelled “unhealthy”.
- [L] This approach offered clear medical categories but limited understanding of wellbeing.
- [P] From another angle, modern definitions enable inclusion.
- [E] This allows people with chronic conditions to be considered healthy.
- [Ev] WHO’s “resource for everyday life” approach means someone managing asthma can be healthy if they maintain quality of life.
- [L] This creates opportunities for positive health identity despite ongoing conditions.
- [P] Supporters argue this evolution promotes holistic care.
- [E] It encourages focus on function over diagnosis.
- [Ev] A person with controlled epilepsy who works, exercises and socialises demonstrates health across multiple dimensions.
- [L] This broader view supports better treatment approaches.
- [P] Critics contend it may minimise medical needs.
- [E] This could reduce urgency for treatment.
- [Ev] Emphasising coping abilities might overshadow the real challenges of chronic illness management.
- [L] Despite benefits, this raises concerns about adequate healthcare provision.