What is the overall goal of holistic assessment?

The overall goal of holistic assessment is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s health. This approach recognizes that health is not merely the absence of disease but involves a complex interplay of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental factors. By evaluating all these aspects, healthcare providers can develop a more complete picture of a patient's well-being, which enhances the ability to create tailored treatment plans and promote holistic healing.

This type of assessment encourages the practitioner to engage deeply with the patient, fostering a therapeutic relationship and enabling a more effective and personalized health care experience. In contrast to simply focusing on quick diagnoses or treating only physical symptoms, holistic assessment prioritizes the whole person, which can lead to more sustainable health outcomes. Additionally, minimizing patient interaction undermines the relational component that is foundational to holistic practices, which rely on understanding the individual needs and experiences of the patient.