A Comparative Study of Classification of External Causes of Injury in Selected Countries: Design a Model for Iran

Injuries are among the most important causes of deaths and disabilities. External causes of injury codes help us to identify high risk population subgroups for a particular cause of injury, to identify the place of occurrence for specific types of injuries and to develop prevention strategies of injury. This study was aimed to classification of external causes of injuries in selected countries, and provides a model for Iran. This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in 2006-7. Data collecting tools were internet, E-mail communication with foreign experts, periodicals, and texts. In this research responsible organization and the structure of classification of external causes of injuries in selected countries were studied in order to recommend a national classification of external causes of injuries. This model evaluated by Delphi techniques. Finally after the analyses of test results, the model presented. The results obtained from comparative study of classification of external causes of injury in selected countries and World Health Organization, are presented. Also the final model for national classification has been completely described in 4 major axes; including: responsible organization, common characteristics of tabular list and alphabetic index, special characteristics of tabular list, and general characteristics. It seems that recommended model has some similarities to the international classification of external causes of injuries rather than other classifications. Keywords: Classication, External Causes of injuries, Delphi Evaluation