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The ICF has been developed for use in describing functioning and disability. It is now recognised as a reference member of the WHO family of international classifications (WHO-FIC), and complementary to the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD). The WHO family of international classifications provides a framework and language for information about health and functioning so that people can communicate about health and health care in common terms, across various disciplines and between countries (WHO 2001:3).
Health conditions (diseases, disorders, injuries etc.) are generally classified using the ICD (the most current version is the ICD-10), which provides diagnosis codes for diseases, disorders or other health conditions. Functioning and disability associated with health conditions are classified using the ICF. The ICD-10 and the ICF enable consistent collection of information about diagnosis as well as human functioning. The use of both classifications together is considered to provide a more meaningful and complete picture of the health needs of people and populations (WHO 2001:4).
There is some overlap between the two
classifications. Both classifications refer to body systems, and the ICF concept
of 'impairment' is also used in the
ICD-10. However, 'the ICD-10 uses impairments (as signs and symptoms) as parts
of a constellation that forms a 'disease', or sometimes as reasons for
contact with health services, whereas the ICF system uses impairments as
problems of body functions and structures associated with health conditions'
(WHO 2001:4).
See Section 11 for web sites on the Australian 'family' of health and related classifications.
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