Familia y práctica médica

the family has an important role within the health-disease process. However, this area of knowledge has not been sufficiently studied and its inclusion in medical practice is variable. We conducted a literature review in order to analyze the conceptualization of family, the relationship between family and the health-disease process, the family typology classification and its characterization in colombia, and the ways for addressing the family context among patients who require it. Some clinical conditions should include the family perspective in health care, particularly chronic diseases which represent an increasing burden in colombia; thus, enhanced knowledge and skills for getting and using family information is necessary in different levels. Strengthening the curricula of medical career including the family perspective would be desirable.