PDHPE HSC CORE 1 Practice Exam – Prep Guide and Practice Questions

The definition of 'risk assessment' in relation to health is a systematic evaluation of potential risks that could harm health. This involves identifying hazards, analyzing and evaluating the likelihood and impact of those hazards on individuals or populations, and ultimately supporting decision-making processes aimed at minimizing health-related risks.

By conducting a risk assessment, health professionals and organizations can develop strategies to prevent injuries or illnesses and create interventions that enhance overall health outcomes. This proactive approach is essential in public health, workplace health practices, and clinical settings, as it helps prioritize risks and allocate resources effectively to manage them.

The other options relate to different concepts within healthcare. Treating existing diseases focuses on managing and administering care for health conditions rather than assessing risks. Measuring patient satisfaction pertains to evaluating the experience of patients within the healthcare system, which does not involve risk evaluation. Finally, reducing healthcare costs addresses economic aspects of health services rather than the assessment of health risks. Understanding the distinction between these concepts further underscores the importance of having a clear definition of risk assessment in health contexts.