American Journal of Medical and Clinical Sciences. 2025; 10(2):(132-142)


Reimagining Healthcare Through Actor-Network Theory: A Latourian Critique of Modern Medical Hierarchies

Julian Ungar-Sargon

Abstract

This paper explores the application of Bruno Latour's Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as a conceptual framework for critiquing contemporary healthcare delivery systems. By examining the complex networks of human and non-human actors that constitute medical practice, we challenge the traditional hierarchical structures that dominate modern healthcare. Through ANT's lens, medical authority emerges not from institutional positions but through dynamic associations between diverse actors physicians, patients, technologies, protocols, and physical spaces. We argue that recognizing the distributed agency within healthcare networks reveals fundamental limitations in current biomedical models that prioritize vertical authority structures and technical interventions over holistic healing relationships. By reconceptualizing healthcare as heterogeneous networks where healing emerges through translations between actors rather than top-down impositions of medical authority, this paper proposes alternative approaches to care that respect the complex, relational nature of healing processes. These insights suggest practical reforms for healthcare education, institutional design, and policy development that could foster more effective, equitable, and humanistic healing environments.

Most Viewed Article
  • Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Suspected COVID-19 Cases Received at the National Public Health Laboratory (Thies-Senegal)
    Moustapha Niane, Rokhaya Diagne, Malick Ndao, Aminata Sow, Oumar Johnson.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25017

  • Electrothermocoagulation for Occlusion of the Lacrimal Punctum: An Easy Outpatient Procedure
    Jorge Schwember, Luisa Madrid, Constanza Orrego.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25016

  • Association between Comorbidities and COVID-19 Mortality in Two African Countries: A Case- Control Study
    Adelard Kakunze, Birungi Patience, Ingabire Kabarega Betty, Gizaw Teka Nibzane, Masresha Tessema, Chioma Dannwafor, Rejoice Luka-Lawal, Charles Ameh, Mohammed Abdulaziz.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25015

  • Implementing a University-Based Nurse-Led Mobile Health Program: Lessons from Practice
    Kathleen Rindahl
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25014

  • The Financial Burden of Breast Cancer Treatment; Drug Cost Reduction Proposal
    Helmy M Guirgis
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25013

Most Downloaded
  • Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Suspected COVID-19 Cases Received at the National Public Health Laboratory (Thies-Senegal)
    Moustapha Niane, Rokhaya Diagne, Malick Ndao, Aminata Sow, Oumar Johnson.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25017

  • Electrothermocoagulation for Occlusion of the Lacrimal Punctum: An Easy Outpatient Procedure
    Jorge Schwember, Luisa Madrid, Constanza Orrego.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25016

  • Association between Comorbidities and COVID-19 Mortality in Two African Countries: A Case- Control Study
    Adelard Kakunze, Birungi Patience, Ingabire Kabarega Betty, Gizaw Teka Nibzane, Masresha Tessema, Chioma Dannwafor, Rejoice Luka-Lawal, Charles Ameh, Mohammed Abdulaziz.
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25015

  • Implementing a University-Based Nurse-Led Mobile Health Program: Lessons from Practice
    Kathleen Rindahl
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25014

  • The Financial Burden of Breast Cancer Treatment; Drug Cost Reduction Proposal
    Helmy M Guirgis
    » Abstract » doi: 10.33425/2832-4226/25013