Enhancing quality of life in medical populations: a vision for body image assessment and rehabilitation as standards of care

This article presents a vision and framework for establishing body image assessment and rehabilitation as a standard of care for patients with medical disorders. Making this vision a reality depends upon: (1) a thorough understanding of the body image construct; (2) application of many new forms of body image assessment; (3) refined understanding of body image disorder and dysfunction in the context of medical conditions; and (4) a clear plan to implement and evaluate prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment programs. Applying the many important developments that have occurred in body image theory, assessment, and intervention over the past decade holds promise for enhancing the quality of life of many individuals with medical conditions.