International classification of impairments, disabilities, and handicaps : a manual of classification relating to the consequences of disease, published in accordance with resolution WHA29.35 of the Twenty-ninth World Health Assembly, May 1976

Abstract

Presents a system for classifying impairments, disabilities, and handicaps with the aim of improving information on the consequences of disease. Three independent classifications are presented. Impairments are classified according to abnormalities of body structure and appearance or disturbances of organ or system function resulting from any cause (‎disturbances at the organ level)‎. The classification of disabilities reflects the consequences of impairment in terms of functional performance and activity by the individual (‎disturbances at the individual level)‎. Handicaps cover the disadvantages experienced by the individual as a result of impairments and disabilities (‎interaction of the individual with the environment)‎. Taxonomic structure and coding follow the system used in the International Classification of Diseases