International Classification of Health Interventions

International Classification of Health Interventions

The International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI) is a classification system developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide a standardized framework for classifying health interventions. It is designed to be used in conjunction with other health classifications, such as the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), to improve the consistency and comparability of health data.

Background

The need for a standardized classification system for health interventions arose from the increasing complexity and diversity of healthcare services provided worldwide. Different countries and healthcare systems often used their own classification systems, making it difficult to compare and analyze health data across different settings.

In response to this challenge, the WHO initiated the development of ICHI in collaboration with various stakeholders, including health professionals, researchers, and policymakers. The aim was to create a comprehensive and internationally applicable classification system that could be used across different healthcare settings and disciplines.

Structure

ICHI is organized into three main axes: Target, Action, and Means. Each axis provides a different aspect of the intervention being classified.

The Target axis describes the health condition or problem that the intervention is intended to address. It includes categories such as diseases, injuries, and risk factors. For example, a specific intervention may target a particular disease, such as diabetes or cancer.

The Action axis describes the specific action or procedure performed as part of the intervention. It includes categories such as diagnostic procedures, therapeutic interventions, and preventive measures. For example, a specific intervention may involve a surgical procedure, medication administration, or counseling.

The Means axis describes the resources or tools used to carry out the intervention. It includes categories such as medical devices, drugs, and human resources. For example, a specific intervention may require the use of a specific medical device, such as a pacemaker or a ventilator.

Use and Benefits

ICHI is intended to be used by healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to classify and analyze health interventions. It can be used in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.

The use of ICHI has several benefits. Firstly, it allows for the consistent and standardized classification of health interventions, enabling the comparison and analysis of health data across different settings and countries. This can help identify trends, patterns, and best practices in healthcare delivery.

Secondly, ICHI facilitates the development of health information systems and databases. By classifying interventions in a standardized manner, it becomes easier to collect, store, and retrieve health data. This can support decision-making, resource allocation, and policy development in healthcare.

Lastly, ICHI can contribute to the improvement of healthcare quality and patient safety. By providing a standardized framework for classifying interventions, it promotes clear communication and understanding among healthcare professionals. This can help reduce errors, improve coordination of care, and enhance patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI) is a valuable tool for classifying and analyzing health interventions. Developed by the World Health Organization, it provides a standardized framework that improves the consistency and comparability of health data. By using ICHI, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers can better understand and evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions, leading to improved healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.