The biopsychosociotechnical model: a systems-based framework for human-centered health improvement

Area of Science:

• Health Systems Science
• Sociotechnical Systems Theory
• Biopsychosocial Health Models

Background:

• The biopsychosocial model is influential but faces conceptual and pragmatic criticisms.
• Existing frameworks may not fully capture the complexity of modern health determinants.
• A need exists for a more practical and comprehensive model for human-centered health improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extend and restructure the biopsychosocial model by integrating sociotechnical systems theory.
• To address key critiques of the biopsychosocial model, creating a more practical theory.
• To provide a roadmap for improving human-centered health systems.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual integration of the biopsychosocial model with sociotechnical systems theory.
• Re-structuring the model to view health determinants as complex adaptive systems.
• Incorporating the artificial (technological) world into the health framework.

Main Results:

• Introduction of the biopsychosociotechnical model, a novel framework for health improvement.
• The model depicts health determinants as a complex adaptive system of systems.
• Provides a roadmap for systems improvement, differentiating assessment and intervention.

Conclusions:

• The biopsychosociotechnical model offers a more practical and comprehensive approach to human-centered health improvement.
• It addresses limitations of the biopsychosocial model by incorporating technology and a systems orientation.
• The model supports a full lifecycle approach to health improvement through participatory design and intervention management.