Changing the Paradigm of Treatment: From Sick-Care to Wellness
Changing the Paradigm of Treatment: From Sick-Care to Wellness
This article is published by IHTPB in collaboration with AWMI, JDNI, FIIM, WTN Indonesia Chapter, and SPA, Therapist Association ASTI ASPI.
Author: Dr. Mohammad Asyhadi, S.Kes, S.E, M.Pd.
Positions and Roles:
- Chairman of the Indonesian Wellness & Therapist Association (ASTI)
- Director of LSP Spa Nasional PT Global Wahana Tirta (LSPr) licensed by KAN/BSN
- Chairman of ASPI - Indonesian Wellness & SPA Therapist Association
- Vice Chairman of the Indonesian LSP Association (PSPI) under Kadin & BNSP
- Chairman I of ASPI Wellness & SPA
Abstract
In the 18th-19th centuries, the healthcare system was dominated by the sick-care model, which focused on curative treatment and neglected the promotive and preventive aspects. However, this paradigm has limitations and is not sustainable economically or socially.
New Awareness and Criticism
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a new awareness emerged about the importance of health promotion, disease prevention, and holistic well-being. This led to the development of concepts such as social medicine, public health, and preventive medicine.
Reintegration of Holistic Health Concepts
Holistic health concepts, such as the biopsychosocial model and wellness movement, began to be integrated into the healthcare system. Medical Wellness and Traditional & Complementary Medicine (T&CM) have become important components of this paradigm.
Relevance to Modern Medical Wellness
Modern Medical Wellness focuses on maintaining health, improving quality of life, and integrating curative and preventive approaches. This aligns with the WHO definition of health, which emphasizes physical, mental, and social well-being.
Position of Medical Wellness & T&CM
Medical Wellness and T&CM serve as promoters of promotive-preventive care, controllers of healthcare costs, enhancers of quality of life, and supporters of UHC and SDGs.
Future of Healthcare
The future of healthcare is not about choosing between sick-care or wellness, but about integrating both in a balanced way. Medical Wellness is the roadmap for the future of healthcare: from treating diseases → managing health → improving quality of life.
Diagram of Treatment Paradigm
TRADITIONAL TREATMENT (≤ 17th century)
Focus: balance and harmony
Preventive & promotive
Body – mind – environment
↓
SICK-CARE MODEL (18th-19th centuries)
Focus: disease
Curative & rehabilitative
Technology & pharmacology
↓
WELLNESS PARADIGM (20th-21st centuries)
Focus: health & quality of life
Promotive – preventive – curative
Holistic & integrative
Medical + T&CM
Diagram of Health
ILLNESS ⇌ WELLNESS
↓ ⇌ ↑
TREATMENT ⇌ PREVENTION
↓ ⇌ ↑
SICK-CARE ⇌ WELLNESS CARE
In conclusion, shifting the paradigm from sick-care to wellness is crucial for achieving sustainable and equitable healthcare. By embracing Medical Wellness and T&CM, we can create a healthier and more resilient society.