The concept of Whole Health draws from the definition of health as stated in the World Health Organization (WHO) constitution that “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.”1 Reservations on the feasibility of operationalizing this definition have partially influenced the subsequent discourse on this concept. Some argued that the concept is vast, vague, and unquantifiable, thereby resulting in a biomedical implementation model focusing on treating diseases to improve an individual’s health.2 Noting the limitations of the biomedical model, Engel3 argued for a biopsychosocial model that considers the patient, the social context in which he lives, and the society mechanisms in place to deal with diseases. Similarly, Jonas and Rosenbaum4 advocated for whole person care, highlighting benefits such as better patient experience, clinical outcomes, and lower costs.
The concept of whole health represents a comprehensive approach to healthcare that looks beyond mere disease treatment to encompass physical, mental, social, and environmental well-being. This approach is rooted in the World Health Organization's (WHO) definition of health as a state of complete well-being. Whole health challenges the traditional biomedical model by integrating various dimensions of health, recognizing that factors such as environment, behavior, and social context significantly influence health outcomes.
The global push for whole health is supported by frameworks like the Alma Ata and Astana declarations and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasize the importance of addressing all determinants of health. These frameworks highlight the necessity of affordable, comprehensive healthcare that includes primary care, mental health support, and preventive services.
However, implementing whole health faces challenges, particularly in low-income countries where funding is limited, and health systems often prioritize curative over preventive care. These countries also struggle with human resource gaps and inadequate supply chains. Effective implementation requires multisectoral collaboration and policies that integrate health considerations across various sectors.
Community Health Workers are pivotal in advancing whole health, especially in underserved areas. They provide essential services and health education, although they often face challenges such as fragmented implementation and poor compensation. Successful case studies from countries like Rwanda and Ethiopia demonstrate that whole health is achievable with the right investments and reforms. These examples underscore the importance of integrating mental health into primary care and leveraging multisectoral partnerships.
Whole health also stresses the importance of patient-centered care, as seen in the US Department of Veterans Affairs' approach, which empowers individuals to manage their health by aligning care with personal goals. Investment strategies should focus on broad, system-wide challenges while also supporting targeted interventions for specific health outcomes.
Environmental factors play a crucial role in health outcomes, and the WHO advocates for integrated strategies to build resilience against climate-related health impacts. Technology can further enhance whole health by improving access to services, especially in remote areas.
Political commitment is essential at both national and global levels to foster cross-sectoral collaboration and overcome challenges in implementing whole health. Countries that have successfully adopted whole health approaches provide valuable lessons in building resilient health systems and improving community well-being. The vision of whole health is feasible, with numerous programs demonstrating its robustness even during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustained efforts and global partnerships are crucial to achieving this holistic approach to health and well-being.