Value, dignity, and – in general – human flourishing have been deemed by the researchers as factors that contribute to the state of prosperity in individuals and society thriving in general. Human flourishing consists of many elements, “certainly including mental and physical health, but also encompassing happiness and life satisfaction, meaning and purpose, character and virtue, and close social relationships” (VanderWeele, 2017, p. 8148). Dignity is described as a quality “closely connected to esteem and status such that patients can live in accordance with their standards and values” (Xiao, Chow, Liu, & Chan, 2019, p. 1791). Therefore, for healthcare to be able to contribute to these spheres, it should concentrate on treating patients and not illnesses.
On-Time Delivery!Get your 100% customized paper done in
as little as 1 hour
Since the Health-Illness continuum approach is concentrated on the mental and physical state of patients, it can be used as an effective way to promote the value, dignity, and flourishing of patients. The concept of wellness that lies in the basis of the health-illness continuum “considers all facets of an individual including physical, psychological, cultural, spiritual and intellectual” (LeMone, 2017, p. 17). Therefore, by accepting this method, healthcare providers make a significant contribution to the well-being of individuals and society.
Looking at a patient as a person with mental needs and respecting their values allows doctors not only to maintain or restore their health but also to respect their dignity and prioritize their flourishing. It is especially significant in treating people with chronic diseases or in need of palliative care. For other patients, this approach shown by doctors and nurses might bring change to their everyday lives and teach valuable lessons on how to improve their well-being beyond healthcare situations.
Order this paper