Application of the World Health Organization (WHO) ICF and ICF-CY to communication disability

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a framework and classification system that captures functional health status. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) (2001) and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) (2007) represent a significant advancement in the understanding of functional health and disabilities compared to WHO's initial 1980 International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH). The ICF and ICF-CY have been gaining acceptance across Europe in all health sectors and rehabilitation fields. This article describes the basics of the ICF and ICF-CY, and their possible clinical, educational, and research influences on the field of communication disorders. In addition, a discussion of European Union based initiatives using these classifications systems is presented, as well as recent ICF activities in Spain.

La Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) ha desarrollado un sistema de clasificación que refleja el estado de salud funcional. La International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) (2001) y la International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) (2007) representan un avance significativo en la comprensión de la salud y la discapacidad funcional en comparación con la clasificación inicial International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH) realizada por la OMS en 1980. La ICF y la ICF-CY han ido ganando aceptación en los sectores de salud y los campos de rehabilitación de toda Europa. Este artículo describe los fundamentos de la ICF y la ICF-CY, y su posible práctica clínica y educativa, además de influir en la investigación para el estudio de los trastornos de la comunicación.

Además, abre un debate sobre las iniciativas de la Unión Europea ante estos sistemas de clasificación y las recientes actividades de la ICF presentadas en España.