What was a major criticism of Western medical science regarding its focus on diseases?

The focus of Western medical science has often been critiqued for its tendency to prioritize the treatment and diagnosis of diseases over the holistic care of patients. This criticism points to a narrow perspective, where the symptoms and illnesses are typically addressed without considering the broader context of the individual's overall health, psychological well-being, and social circumstances. Although Western medicine excels in identifying and treating specific diseases through evidence-based approaches, this has led to concerns that patient experiences, preferences, and the importance of comprehensive care can be overlooked.

This focus can result in patients feeling like they are merely a set of symptoms to be fixed rather than individuals with unique needs. Emphasizing the need for more integrated care models acknowledges that successful treatment requires addressing not only the disease but also the patient's psychological, emotional, and social factors that contribute to their health. The other options address different aspects of healthcare but do not capture this central critique concerning the neglect of patient-centered care in the disease-focused model.