Using the ICF in Ireland

Anne Good

doi:10.1186/1471-2458-11-s4-s5

Abstract

This paper reflects on the use of ICF in Ireland, taking as a case study the experience of the first National Disability Survey (NDS). There were four clear effects in Ireland of using ICF as a framework for the NDS: a) that a broader range of people with disabilities was encompassed; b) that the environmental factors included from the ICF were comprehensive and policy relevant; c) that both barriers and facilitators were incorporated into the model; and d) that a focus on research ethics was encouraged. Some general conclusions regarding the benefits and limitations of ICF based on this experience are also drawn.

Highlights

This paper provides some reflections on the use of the ICF in Ireland, taking as a case study the experience of the first Irish National Disability Survey (NDS) which was conducted in 2006 by the Central Statistics Office (CSO)
The findings of National Disability Survey are seen to be a major resource in implementing their sectoral plans and some are currently engaged in more detailed analyses of the NDS data relevant to their work than was included in the two general reports by the CSO
To summarise: the disability movement developed and championed the social model of disability which has had major impact on policy oriented research and data collection. During this period of major change, use of the ICF has helped national research bodies in Ireland meet the challenge of creating new evidence

Summary

Introduction

Introduction This paper provides some reflections on the use of the ICF in Ireland, taking as a case study the experience of the first Irish National Disability Survey (NDS) which was conducted in 2006 by the Central Statistics Office (CSO). They included a recommendation that Ireland begin to conduct the type of regular National Disability Surveys which were already undertaken in many other developed countries.

Results

Conclusion