WFOT Survey about the use and utility of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)

Abstract

A global study about the use of the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) (WHO 2001) by occupational therapists was commissioned by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists in 2008–09. The objectives of the study were: to gain a greater understanding of how the ICF is being used by occupational therapists in clinical practice, education, research, administration and policy; to identify and share strategies to address the challenges and barriers to using the ICF in these different areas; and to articulate the profession’s unique perspective of the ICF and its key concepts of function, disability and health. An online survey was conducted first, and over 1200 occupational therapists from 60 countries responded. Statistical analysis of the responses were compiled and shared at a workshop held at the WFOT Congress in Chile in 2010. Over 50 workshop participants reviewed the data about use of the ICF by occupational therapists in the five areas of practice and made recommendations to the WFOT and the WHO. Strategies to increase use of the ICF among occupational therapists in clinical practice, education, research, administration and policy are outlined in this report.