Which model emphasizes biological, social, and psychological factors to provide a holistic view of care?

• A. Biopsychosocial Model
• B. Medical Model
• C. Administrative Model
• D. Social Model

Answer: (A)

This question tests recognizing a model that combines biological, psychological, and social factors to view care as a whole. The Biopsychosocial Model does exactly that—it expands beyond treating only the biological disease to include mental processes and the social environment surrounding the patient. This approach was proposed to address the limitations of the traditional biomedical model, which focuses primarily on biological pathology, and to promote more comprehensive, patient-centered care.

By considering biology, we look at the physical health and disease mechanisms; by considering psychology, we account for thoughts, emotions, behaviors, coping skills, and mental health; by considering social factors, we include relationships, culture, socioeconomic status, and access to resources. Together, these elements provide a fuller picture of a patient’s health and guide more effective interventions—for example, managing a chronic illness with medical treatment, addressing mood or anxiety issues, and leveraging social support to improve adherence and outcomes.

The other models don’t cover all three domains together: the Medical Model centers on biological disease processes; the Administrative Model focuses on the organization and delivery of care; and the Social Model emphasizes social determinants but often doesn’t integrate the biological and psychological aspects. So the model that encompasses biology, psychology, and social factors for a holistic view is the Biopsychosocial Model.