Care for Health

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As human beings, we have great capacity for growth and development throughout our life cycle. A roller coaster of growth and development takes place the moment one thinks of having a baby (or not), when conception takes place (or not), during pregnancy, when a baby is born, when bodies and minds develop heavily during childhood and adolescence; possibly preparing for the next roller coaster ride. This capacity for growth is inherently context bound. How, where, with which genes, and in what kind of family or neighborhood we are born impacts our life massively. Therefore, growth and development is characterized by large biopsychosocial variation and diversity on individual and population level. Nonetheless, variation should be distinguished from “errors”, known as pathophysiology. As a doctor, one tries to promote health and prevent these errors from taking place, eg by giving personalized advice aimed at good health and wellbeing. In this period, the human life cycle serves as a medical framework to discuss these topics from different perspectives, and in which authentic professional tasks related to pregnancy, childbirth, growth and development are practiced. You practice elements of preventive health care in the context of primary health care, and get to know relevant organizations, stakeholders and other professionals; and explore definitions of ‘good’ health, wellbeing, and development. You learn about factors influencing people’s development and health, about how risk-information translates into research and other academic skills, and how to appreciate specific digital information. Moreover, you will discuss what your role as a future doctor can or should be when “caring for health” - touching upon current societal medical ethical discussions, and including own experiences. Support for yourself is provided through the StudySmart and Wellbeing Programme. Again, a roller coaster, but for your own growth and development as a student and future doctor.