Topic Summaries

Models of health, illness, and inequalities in access to healthcare

A-Level > Sociology > AQA > A Level Sociology Topic Summaries > Health > Models of health, illness, and inequalities in access to healthcare
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Exam overview
  • Biomedical model: views illness as biological malfunction and health as absence of disease. Focuses on diagnosis and cure through professional intervention.
    • Reductionist, ignoring social causes of ill health.
  • Social model: argues social, economic, and environmental factors shape health. Prioritises prevention and public health.
    • Critics say it underplays biomedical advances.
  • 👤 Tudor Hart: (1971) “Inverse Care Law” – those most in need often have least access to quality care.
    • NHS reforms aim to reduce this, but postcode lotteries remain.

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