Reflections on the Meaning of Care

Abstract

Health care is increasingly delivered by using medical technologies and specialized procedures. However, the systems through which it is delivered are coming under attack as lacking in care. Medicine is very capable of treating the human body, but it may be losing its sensitivity towards persons, especially concerning the vulnerability they are experiencing. Nurses are finding that the demands for more efficiency and cost-effective measures do not allow them sufficient time to offer the personal care for which they have always felt responsible. The question of the meaning of care surfaces especially in treating those who are approaching death. The need is to balance the various dimensions of care, keeping its focus on the well-being of persons.