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Health Status and Why it is Important to Measure?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease” (Bergner and Rothman 191). In most cases, health status is measured using instruments or using clinical and pathological measures that are usually observed by clinicians. Measuring the health status of individuals is essential in making the economic progression of the population as healthy individuals are productive, and it also helps them to live longer. In this context, the paper defines health status and discusses how measuring health status is essential in boosting the living standards of individuals by being productive.
Health status is the relative level of illness or wellness of an individual. The levels of wellness or disease are in consideration with the presence of symptoms, physiological or biological dysfunction, and functional impairment. According to Bergner and Rothman (197), mental and emotional well-being, and general health perceptions are features that can be utilized to measure health status. Other aspects being used in assessing health status are a pain, vitality, physical functioning, social functioning, and energy.
Individuals’ health status can be determined by different factors that include social status, social support networks, physical environment, social and economic environment, and genetics. Bergner and Rothman (201) reveal that measuring the health status of a population helps them to be healthy, productive, and also live longer. Furthermore, it is essential to measure individuals’ health status to help them live a healthy life and be productive. Thus, this results in economic progression in society.
In summary, health status is the wellness or illness of individuals that can be observed by clinicians using pathological and clinical measures or instruments. Aspects that can be used to asses an individual’s health status include physical functioning, mental and emotional well-being, and pain. Social support networks and physical environment are factors that determine the health status of a population or individual. Health status measure is essential as it boosts economic progress.
Work Cited
Bergner, M., and M. L. Rothman. “Health status measures: an overview and guide for selection.” Annual review of public health 8 (1987): 191-210.