The initiative to eliminate health disparities by 2010 requires an understanding of the barriers to participating in health promotion and disease prevention (wellness) programs. Although the concept of wellness is popular in our culture and the advantages to preventing chronic illness are well-documented, participation in wellness programs is limited. We believe that the primary factor limiting participation in wellness activities is the lack of a model for wellness care. Our current health care system and culture is driven by a disease model which promotes passivity and dependence in the client. In contrast, a system of health driven by a model of wellness would require active involvement of both provider and client and a shift of focal responsibility from the provider to the client. As our health care system evolves from a disease to a wellness model it will be important to have a shared definition of wellness. Such a definition will outline the responsibilities of each party (provider, client, and system) for the development and maintenance of wellness practices. The School of Nursing’s Community Women's Wellness Center provides health promotion and disease prevention services and supports women and their families in the development and maintenance of wellness practices. This study will identify the perceived responsibility of wellness practices among providers and clients and suggest a shared definition of wellness. In addition, factors affecting participation in a wellness program will be identified, explored, and reported upon.
Learning Objectives: The participant will be able to: 1. describe the need for a shared definition of wellness. 2. identifiy the benefits of a client-driven model for wellness. 3. describe how the use of a client-driven model will effect participation in a wellness program
Keywords: Wellness, Barriers to Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.