Discuss how health and illness beliefs can influence the assessment process.

These beliefs are crucial in shaping the way individuals seek out healthcare. These beliefs are influenced by various factors, including cultural, social, and religious values, which shape a person’s view of health and illness. This article explores the impact of health and illness belief on the assessment process including interview and physical examination.

A client’s belief system can affect how they react to an interview. A client who strongly believes in alternate medicine may be resistant to the traditional medical approach. They might also feel reluctant to divulge certain information about their health during an interview, believing it unnecessary or irrelevant. Therefore, healthcare professionals need to be aware of the potential impact of a client’s belief system on the interview process and adapt their approach accordingly.

In addition, culture plays an important role in influencing health-related beliefs. The physical findings from an assessment can be influenced by cultural beliefs. For instance, certain cultural practices, such as traditional herbal remedies, can lead to changes in a person’s physiological responses, which may influence the physical examination findings. Health professionals need to be informed about the cultural practices that their clients follow in order not misinterpret their examination results.

Moreover, culture can also influence a person’s perception of pain and discomfort. According to studies, cultural beliefs may influence how severe and painful pain is experienced. This can have an impact on the assessment process. Some cultures discourage the client from reporting pain. Other cultures encourage people to express their pain which can lead to an over-reporting. Healthcare professionals must be sensitive to cultural differences and adapt their approach in order to assess pain.

The beliefs about health and disease have an important impact on how individuals seek healthcare. Health professionals should be alert to the impact that cultural belief systems and culture can have on assessment processes and adjust their approach accordingly. Promoting cultural competence is crucial to ensuring that healthcare professionals provide clients with appropriate, effective services.

Reference:

Kleinman, A., & Benson, P. (2006). Anthropology and the Clinic: A Problem of Cultural Competence, How to Fix It. PLoS medicine, 3(10), e294. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.0030294