The implementation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) will not violate the rights of people with disabilities. This was announced by Daria Sydorenko, Executive Director of «The League of the Strong».
«Implementing the ICF is an important step towards changing the old Soviet system of the Medical-Social Expert Commission (MSEC) and moving towards a rights-based approach for people with disabilities. This will not harm their rights or take away their benefits. Instead, it will create more services and opportunities for them», said Daria Sydorenko.
Also, Daria Sydorenko mentioned that moving to the ICF is the first step in changing the system. This will happen at the same time as creating an electronic database for sharing information and providing rehabilitation services to everyone, regardless of their disability.
Implementation of ICF involves changing the focus from injuries and illnesses to the results of health problems. This means that more opportunities and services should be created for people with disabilities, such as access to education, retraining, restoring work ability, and providing more rehabilitation aids.
«However, full-fledged reform of the Medical-Social Expert Commission will require more time. Currently, it is at least a 5-year transitional period. Therefore, we have started working on the existing legislation for MSEC. And now we are preparing proposals. We will also create a roadmap for the Ministry of Social Policy, which is responsible for implementing the reform», noted Daria Sydorenko.
«The League of the Strong» conducted a survey in March-April 2023 regarding respondents’ interactions with the Medical-Social Expert Commission. As a result, it was found that the commission is inaccessible to people with disabilities, does not provide sufficient information about the stages of the procedures and necessary documents. According to the survey, the commission is corrupt and the processes are prolonged.
Also, the public association «The League of the Strong» declared that in matters of employment for people with disabilities, a percentage of work capacity loss according to the ICF should be introduced.