The International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH) is a comprehensive framework developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify impairments, disabilities, and handicaps.
An impairment, according to the ICIDH, refers to any loss or abnormality of psychological, anatomical, or physiological structure or function. It is a medically measurable deviation from normal functioning, and can be temporary or permanent, congenital or acquired.
Disability, on the other hand, represents the limitations or restrictions imposed on an individual due to a health condition or impairment. It encompasses the impact of impairments on an individual's physical, cognitive, mental, or sensory abilities, affecting their overall participation and functioning in daily activities.
Lastly, a handicap refers to the disadvantages individuals face in society due to impairments or disabilities. It signifies the societal barriers, attitudinal or environmental, that limit the individual's functioning and participation in various domains of life.
The ICIDH provides a standardized approach for describing, understanding, and measuring the impact of health conditions on individuals, allowing for uniformity in data collection and analysis. It aims to facilitate communication among healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, to enhance the provision of appropriate interventions, support, and resources for individuals with impairments, disabilities, and handicaps.
The ICIDH has been extensively used in research, policy development, and healthcare planning to address various health conditions and disabilities, enabling the comparison of data across different populations and countries. It serves as a valuable tool to promote inclusivity, equality, and accessibility for individuals with impairments and disabilities worldwide.
