The biopsychosocial approach to healthcare is fundamental to Family and Community Medicine specialists. Using the patient-centered, family-focused, community-oriented (PFC) matrix, the interplay of a myriad of biomedical and psychosocial factors is assessed in order to provide a thorough medical management that is custom-made to meet the needs and inherent values of a patient and his/her family. Family assessment tools are also utilized to better understand the family dynamics of a patient that may impact on the prescribed management plan. In addition, social determinants of health are evaluated to ascertain which ones may facilitate or hamper proper utilization of community resources. This family case analysis documented the medical ordeal of a young professional who had been diagnosed with two rare medical conditions: necrotizing fasciitis and Chiari malformation Type II. Employing the PFC matrix, the Family and Community Medicine specialist was able to provide inter-disciplinary care for the patient and his family in a holistic manner by recognizing patient needs, creating an enabling family support environment, and helping the family unit navigate various community resources.
Humans ; Social Determinants of Health ; Family Health ; Social Factors ; Patient-Centered Care