Healthcare Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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healthcare

[ˈhelθˌker ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical services

Healthcare refers to the maintenance and improvement of physical and mental health through the provision of medical services. It includes prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of illness and injuries.

Synonyms

health services, medical care, medical treatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
healthcare	General discussions about the system and industry providing medical services to the population, and when describing the overarching infrastructure related to health services. The country's healthcare system requires significant reforms to improve accessibility Advances in technology are transforming healthcare globally
medical care	Highlighting the treatment and attention provided to individuals when they are sick or need medical assistance, often in healthcare facilities like hospitals. She received excellent medical care during her stay at the hospital Immediate medical care is essential for serious injuries
health services	Referring to the specific actions or services provided to maintain and improve health. Common in professional and clinical settings. The local clinic offers comprehensive health services including screenings and vaccinations Health services in rural areas have been improved drastically
medical treatment	Discussing the specific procedures, medications, and therapies administered to treat illnesses or medical conditions. The patient underwent medical treatment for his chronic condition New advances in medical treatments have increased survival rates for many diseases

Examples of usage

Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right.
The healthcare system in this country is in need of reform.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

industry

Healthcare also refers to the industry that provides medical services, including hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, and other healthcare organizations.

Synonyms

health sector, medical field, medical industry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
healthcare	Used to refer to systems and services that provide medical care and treatments to individuals. It's often used in broad discussions about the quality or accessibility of medical services. Investments in healthcare are crucial for a healthy society. The report highlighted the challenges facing rural healthcare.
medical industry	Often refers to the commercial aspect of healthcare, including pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and other businesses related to medicine. Can have a slightly negative connotation when discussing profit-driven motives. The medical industry is constantly evolving with new technologies. There are concerns about the profit motives within the medical industry.
health sector	Focused on the specific segment of the economy related to health services, including public health organizations, hospitals, and pharmaceuticals. The health sector is a major employer in our region. Reforms in the health sector are necessary to improve patient care.
medical field	Typically refers to the professional realm that includes doctors, nurses, and other medical practitioners. Used when talking about careers, advancements, or research in medicine. She has dedicated her life to the medical field. Recent advancements in the medical field have improved patient outcomes.

Examples of usage

She works in the healthcare industry.
The healthcare sector is a significant contributor to the economy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first hospitals were established in ancient Greece and Rome to care for soldiers and travelers.
In the Middle Ages, monasteries provided the first forms of organized healthcare by housing the sick and poor.
The modern concept of healthcare began to form in the 19th century with advancements in medicine and the establishment of public health organizations.

Pop Culture

Television shows like 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'House' highlight the drama and complexity of healthcare professions.
Movies often depict healthcare heroes, showcasing the importance of empathy in medicine, like in 'Patch Adams.'
The rise of health-related podcasts and documentaries has sparked public interest in healthcare topics and personal wellness.

Science

Studies show that regular access to healthcare greatly improves life expectancy and quality of life.
Innovations in telemedicine allow patients to receive care remotely, expanding access to healthcare services.
Preventative care, such as vaccinations and screenings, is proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious diseases.

Psychology

Mental health has gained recognition as an important component of overall healthcare, leading to increased resources and therapies.
The stigma around seeking help for mental health issues has been challenged in recent years, encouraging more open conversations.
Research indicates a strong connection between physical health and mental well-being, meaning both should be addressed together.

Origin of 'healthcare'

Main points about word origin

The word 'health' comes from Old English 'hæleð,' meaning wholeness, goodness, or vitality.
The term 'care' has roots in Old French 'carer,' which means to be concerned about someone or something.
Combining these words emphasizes the idea of safeguarding and promoting well-being.

The term 'healthcare' originated in the mid-20th century, combining 'health' and 'care' to emphasize the importance of caring for one's health. The concept of healthcare has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of medical services and the industry that provides them.