J Korean Med Assoc.
2022 Oct;65(10):655-661. 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.10.655.
Disability epidemiology and health policy in Korea
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Chungbuk National University Hospital, Cheongju, Korea
- 2College of Medicine and Institute of Health and Science Convergence, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
- KMID: 2535864
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2022.65.10.655
Abstract
- Background
There are more than 1,000 million people with disability worldwide, about 15% of the global population. The prevalence of disability has been rising because of aging populations and the increase in people with chronic diseases. Even though it is well known that people with disability have an increased risk of chronic diseases and mortality at a younger age, health policies have not been developed correspondingly.
Current Concepts
Disability epidemiology is a study of the patterns, distributions, determinants, and outcomes of disabling conditions. From the medical model perspective, people with disabilities are just ill or abnormal. To overcome the limitations of the medical model, the World Health Organization developed the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health.
Discussion and Conclusion
Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model based on a biopsychosocial framework, the healthcare community should work together to develop and implement action plans to improve the health of those with disabilities. These policies are essential to care for acute-stage disabilities, build an integrated care system, and provide a better environment for people with disability.
