Healthcare Practices: WSM, CAM & TM

Healthcare Practices: WSM, CAM & TM

Understanding Different Approaches to Health and Healing Year 13 Health Education NCEA Level 3.3 (91463)

Learning Objectives

Define and distinguish between WSM, CAM, and TM Analyze the philosophical foundations of each practice Evaluate advantages and disadvantages of different approaches Connect practices to health concepts: hauora, socio-ecological perspective, health promotion Assess current use of these practices in New Zealand

Western Scientific Medicine (WSM)

Evidence-based approach using scientific method Focus on biological causes of disease Standardized treatments and protocols Emphasis on diagnosis, treatment, and cure Relies on clinical trials and peer-reviewed research

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

Used alongside or instead of conventional medicine Includes practices like acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy Holistic approach considering mind, body, and spirit Often based on traditional knowledge systems Growing integration with conventional healthcare

Traditional Medicine (TM)

Indigenous healing systems passed down through generations Includes Māori rongoā, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda Spiritual and cultural components integral to healing Uses natural remedies and traditional practices Recognized by WHO as important healthcare resource

Philosophical Foundations Comparison

{"left":"WSM: Reductionist approach - body as machine with parts to fix\nCAM: Holistic approach - treats whole person, not just symptoms\nTM: Spiritual/cultural approach - healing involves restoring balance and connection","right":"WSM: Disease-focused model\nCAM: Wellness-focused model\nTM: Harmony-focused model"}

Case Study Analysis

Work in groups of 3-4 Analyze the provided case study of a patient with chronic back pain Discuss how WSM, CAM, and TM might approach this condition differently Consider: diagnosis methods, treatment options, patient involvement Prepare to share your findings with the class

Advantages and Disadvantages Comparison

Critical Thinking Question

How do the concepts of hauora (Māori model of health) and the socio-ecological perspective align with or challenge each healthcare approach? Consider: Taha tinana (physical), Taha hinengaro (mental), Taha whānau (social), Taha wairua (spiritual) Think about individual, community, and environmental factors

Healthcare Practices in New Zealand Today

Integrated healthcare models emerging District Health Boards incorporating Māori health approaches Regulation of some CAM practices (Acupuncture, Chiropractic) Patient choice and cultural competency increasingly important Challenges: funding, training, evidence standards

Reflection and Summary

"The best healthcare system is one that combines the precision of science with the wisdom of tradition and the compassion of holistic care." Key takeaways: Each approach offers unique strengths Integration rather than competition may be the future Cultural appropriateness matters in healthcare Evidence and tradition can coexist