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.