The American Psychological Association (APA) has been collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO) over the past five years in the revision of the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities and Handicaps (ICIDH). The revised system, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICIDH-2), is expected to be approved by the World Health Organization in May, 2001. In anticipation of the release of ICIDH-2, APA is directing its efforts to activities that will enhance implementation of the system by health professionals and across health systems in the US. Although the ICIDH-2 has been publicized throughout its revision period, it remains largely unknown to many potential users. In order to be maximally disseminated and used, guidance on how to apply the system will be critical. In collaboration with WHO, APA plans to conduct a series of stakeholders meetings designed to assess the needs for ICIDH-2 in varied health sectors and the feasibility of implementing the system across health disciplines and service delivery systems. This feasibility study will guide future implementation efforts including the development of an interdisciplinary Procedural Manual and Guide for a Standardized Application of the ICIDH-2. This manual, including an electronic version that will guide efficient use of the classification, will enhance the ease and reliability with which the ICIDH-2 is used. This presentation will outline the results of the needs assessment and feasibility study conducted with stakeholders and will describe development of the multi-disciplinary Procedural Manual.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe the benefits of using a functional classification system. 2. Identify barriers for implementing the ICIDH-2 in various health sectors. 3. Describe interdisciplinary collaborative initiatives that will facilitate the use of ICIDH-2 by health professionals.
Keywords: ICIDH-2, Health Assessment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.