A Conceptual Definition of Vocational Rehabilitation Based on the ICF: Building a Shared Global Model

Background The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is a conceptual framework and classification system by the World Health Organization (WHO) to understand functioning. The objective of this discussion paper is to offer a conceptual definition for vocational rehabilitation (VR) based on the ICF. Method We presented the ICF as a model for application in VR and the rationale for the integration of the ICF. We also briefly reviewed other work disability models. Results Five essential elements of foci were found towards a conceptual definition of VR: an engagement or re-engagement to work, along a work continuum, involved health conditions or events leading to work disability, patient-centered and evidence-based, and is multi-professional or multidisciplinary. Conclusions VR refers to a multi-professional approach that is provided to individuals of working age with health-related impairments, limitations, or restrictions with work functioning and whose primary aim is to optimize work participation. We propose that the ICF and VR interface be explored further using empirical and qualitative works and encouraging stakeholders' participatio

Developing national CAREX projects in Latin America & the Caribbean : technical guide (annex) to the workshop proceedings “Building Capacity for CAREX Projects in Latin America and the Caribbean (Bogota, Colombia, May 2014)”

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Americas. These illnesses are responsible for substantial health and economic burdens; in the year 2012, non-communicable diseases accounted for approximately 73% of disability-adjusted life-years from all causes (1). Between 2006 and 2015 in Brazil alone, the cost of treatment and lost productivity due to five chronic diseases was an estimated $72 billion (2). Of the chronic health conditions that are prevalent in the Americas, cancer is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Workplace exposures to known carcinogens are a cause of cancer, among other known and potential risk factors..

Un punto de partida para el planteamiento de la existencia humana

Este artículo defiende, frente a Descartes y Hegel, que la existencia humana, el yo, es irreductible al contenido de conciencia; irreductibilidad que fue detectada por Heidegger, aunque éste la consideró imposible de comprender y que, por lo tanto, la consideró abocada a la angustia. Sin embargo, Polo declara que, aunque parcialmente, ésta se puede conocer