Revista de Artes e Ciências Sociais

Unique Features of Medical Sociology: Using Social Ideas to Examine Health and Medicine

Abstract

Raxere Werthi

Medical sociology is a field that bridges the gap between medicine and sociology, focusing on the social determinants of health, illness, and healthcare systems. It examines how social factors such as gender, race, class, culture, and social norms interact with health and medical practices. In this article, we delve into the unique features of medical sociology, exploring how it employs social ideas to provide insights into the complex interactions between individuals, society, and the healthcare system. One of the core contributions of medical sociology is its emphasis on understanding the impact of social determinants of health. These are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, including factors like socioeconomic status, education, employment, and access to healthcare. Medical sociologists recognize that health outcomes are not solely determined by medical interventions, but are deeply influenced by the broader social context. For instance, individuals with lower socioeconomic status are often at a higher risk of experiencing health disparities due to limited access to quality healthcare and other resources.