The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new version of the International Classification of Functioning and Disability (Beta-2 version of
ICIDH-2) for field trials. This is the last version to be tested and commented on throughout the world before it is finalized and submitted to the World
Health Assembly in 2001. Field trials are due to finish in July 2000 and this version is open for comments by all individuals and organizations.

This is the first time that any type of international classification system is open to comment and possible amendment via the web. The classification is
available in two versions, the Full and Short Versions, and both can be downloaded from the WHO website (http://www.who.int/icidh) and commented on
category by category.

This classification, originally developed in 1980 as a manual for consequences of disease, complements the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10)
and now deals with functional states (i.e., mobility, social integration, etc.) associated with health conditions. It recognises the fact that a diagnosis of
diseases and disorders, while important for clinical and public health needs, is not sufficient to describe the functional status of the individual and
also to predict, guide and plan the various needs of such an individual.

The overall aim of the ICIDH-2 classification is to provide a unified and standard language and framework for the description of human functioning and
disability as an important component of health. The classification covers any disturbance in terms of "functional states" associated with health
conditions at body, individual and society levels. ICIDH-2 organizes information according to three dimensions: body level; individual level; and society level.

The Beta-2 version has been developed after extensive international field trials of the Beta-1 version over the last two years in which a large number of
centres from all regions of WHO took part. Disability groups and associations were actively involved in the revision process.

Hard copies can also be ordered on the Website (http://www.who.int/dsa) or at e-mail bookorders@who.ch

The classification is being translated in all the major languages of the world and information on these is available from the WHO:E-mail: ustunt@who.ch

All WHO Press Releases, Fact Sheets and Features as well as other information on this subject can be obtained on Internet on the WHO home page
http://www.who.ch/