Application of the ICIDH in rehabilitation medicine.

A screening instrument for disabilities, based on the D Code of the ICIDH, has been constructed. It is intended for use in the daily routine of rehabilitation medicine. The instrument consists of 28 items in five ability categories. Disabilities as well as perceived problems related to each disability are described using a four-point scale. In this study the instrument was used to screen the functional status and perceived problems of 284 rehabilitation patients. The mean time needed for assignment was 3 min (range 1-6). Computer software was developed, which permitted easy comparison of disabilities versus the related problems in individuals and at group level.