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What is health and wellness?

Donna Hill Howes, RN
Family Practitioner

The definition of health goes way beyond 'the absence of disease'.  Even the World Health Organization uses a broader definition. 

It is also managing a chronic disease successfully to minimize complications and recurrences.  Healthy people are able to utilize whatever resources are available to them to live their lives on their own terms.  A paraplegic who goes to work every day, supports their family and enjoys being alive is healthy. 

A brilliant professor of mine defines health as functional competence.  Over time, that definition has held up under scrutiny.   

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.