Compare and contrast sociology with medical sociology
The relationship between sociology and medical sociology has been explored in-depth for the last two decades. The concepts are committed to the pursuit of knowledge. On the other hand, the distinction between the concepts is that sociology is not obligated to implement knowledge by social action (Larkin, 2011). Contrarily, medical sociology is compelled to implement the achieved knowledge into social or medical practice (Larkin, 2011). This obligation is based on the fact that only members of the medical profession can perform practitioners’ roles, be committed to value appraisal judgments, and be committed to implementing medical research findings (Barros & Nunes, 2009).
Why it is important to study Medical Sociology
Medical sociology is the study of the social causes and consequences of health and illness. It mainly focuses on the social determinants of health and illness, the social behavior of patients and health providers, and the social functions of health organizations and institutions among others (Larkin, 2011). It is important to study medical sociology as it presents the opportunity to examine the field of medicine and healthcare. What makes the concept important is the essential role that social factors play in determining and influencing the health of individuals, groups, and society. Not only do these factors promote and cause disability and illness, they also enhance the prospects of disease prevention and maintenance (Barros & Nunes, 2009). As such, the study of medical sociology enables medical practitioners or physicians to acquire relevant knowledge about various diseases or health challenges, explore the solutions to these conditions, as well as implement the knowledge acquired into clinical practice.
Reference
Barros, N. F. D., & Nunes, E. D. (2009). Sociology, medicine and the construction of health-related sociology. Revista de Saude Publica, 43(1), 169-175. Retrieved from http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S0034-89102009000100022&script=sci_arttext&tlng=es
Larkin, M. (2011). Social Aspects of Health, Illness and Healthcare. Maidenhead: Open University Press.