An Overview and Future Challenges of the WHO International Classification of Disease ICD-11

Abstract

The 11th revision the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) is new classification system suitable for the pace of development of modern technology. Computerization and ontology-based design are expected to be highly scalable and interoperable in integration and connection with other classification systems. However, when introduced in Korea, structural changes are feared to interfere with the linkage between disease codes. This study briefly introduced ICD-11 and examined related literature and mapping case trends. The interest in ICD-11 in Korea was lower than in other countries, and tend to pay attention to socio-economic repercussions. Research was mainly conducted focusing on ‘Chapter 2 Neoplasms’ and ‘Chapter 6 Mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders’. Through a mapping case study, it was confirmed that ICD-11 is a highly useful classification system, and guidance on post-coordination, such as the sequence and criteria of the expansion code, is needed. Proper preparation is required until ICD-11 is officially implemented in Korea. The role of the government is important at all stages from the introduction to maintenance of ICD-11, and efforts and attention to adaptation of all classified users in the health care industry are needed.