International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health

International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is a classification system developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide a comprehensive and universally accepted framework for the description of health and health-related states. The ICF was officially endorsed by all 191 WHO Member States in the 54th World Health Assembly in 2001. It is a part of the WHO Family of International Classifications, which also includes the International Classification of Diseases (ICD).

Overview

The ICF is designed to be a unifying model for the conceptualization of the health and disability continuum. It encompasses the biopsychosocial model of health, integrating the medical and social models of disability. The ICF framework is based on an integration of the body's functions and structures, the individual's activity levels, and participation in society, while also considering the environmental factors that interact with all these components.

Structure

The ICF is structured around two parts, each with two components:

• Part 1: Functioning and Disability
  • Body Functions and Structures
  • Activities and Participation
• Part 2: Contextual Factors
  • Environmental Factors
  • Personal Factors

Body Functions and Structures

This component of the ICF describes the physiological functions of body systems (including psychological functions) and the anatomical parts of the body such as organs, limbs, and their components. Impairments are problems in body function or structure such as a significant deviation or loss.

Activities and Participation

This component looks at the execution of tasks or actions by an individual and involvement in life situations. Activity limitations are difficulties an individual may have in executing activities, while participation restrictions are problems an individual may experience in involvement in life situations.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors make up the physical, social, and attitudinal environment in which people live and conduct their lives. These are external to the individual and can have a significant impact on the individual's functioning.

Personal Factors

Personal factors include the particular background of an individual's life and living situation, encompassing features of the individual that are not part of a health condition or health states. These factors are not classified in the ICF due to the large social and cultural variability associated with them.

Applications

The ICF is used in a variety of domains including clinical settings, health policy, research, and education. Its applications range from social policy and legislation to the provision of services and the design of interventions. The ICF provides a common language for the description of health and health-related states, enabling communication across different sectors and disciplines.

Importance

The ICF's holistic approach to health and disability is significant for understanding and addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities. It emphasizes the role of environmental factors in the functioning of individuals, promoting a more inclusive society. The ICF also supports the development of health and disability policies that are more aligned with the goal of improving the quality of life for all individuals.