[Comparison of the first medical assessment for rehabilitation benefits and disability pension in Iceland September 1st 1999 to November 30th 2003.].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the main characteristics which differentiate between those who are considered to benefit from rehabilitation and those for whom disability pension is thought more appropriate.


METHODS
The study includes all those fulfilling the medical criteria for rehabilitation benefits or full disability pension in their first assessment at the State Social Security Institute of Iceland between September 1st 1999 and November 30th 2003.


RESULTS
Rehabilitation benefits were mainly awarded in younger age groups; disability pension in older age groups. Mental and behavioural disorders were the most common medical reasons for granting rehabilitation benefits among both genders, followed by disorders of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue, malignant neoplasms and injuries. Among females disorders of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue were the most common medical reason for granting full disability pension, but this group of disorders was a less common reason for rehabilitation benefits. Those who fulfilled the medical criteria for rehabilitation benefits due to disorders of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue were markedly older than those who fulfilled the medical criteria for rehabilitation benefits due to mental and behavioural disorders.


CONCLUSIONS
In Iceland rehabilitation benefits are most likely to be awarded to relatively young claimants suffering from psychiatric disorders.
Thorlacius
Sigurður
S
The State Social Security Institute, Laugavegi 114-116, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. sigurdur.thorlacius@tr.is.
Stefánsson
Sigurjón B
SB
Baldursson
Halldór
H
Jóhannsson
Haraldur
H