tertiääripreventioon

Tertiääripreventio, often translated as tertiary prevention, refers to the measures taken to reduce the impact of established diseases and prevent complications, relapses, and premature death. Unlike primary prevention, which aims to prevent the initial occurrence of a disease, and secondary prevention, which focuses on early detection and intervention, tertiary prevention targets individuals who already have a diagnosed condition. The primary goal is to improve their quality of life, maintain function, and minimize disability.

This level of prevention involves managing chronic conditions, rehabilitating patients after illness or injury, and providing support to prevent further deterioration. Examples include cardiac rehabilitation programs for heart attack survivors, physical therapy for stroke patients, chronic pain management, and support groups for individuals with mental health disorders. It emphasizes optimizing patient outcomes and promoting independence through a combination of medical treatment, therapeutic interventions, and patient education. The focus is on living as well as possible with a long-term health condition.