ICF

International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is a framework for measuring health and disability at both individual and population levels. It was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and provides a standard language and conceptual basis for the definition and measurement of health and disability.

Overview

The ICF is structured around the following components:

• Body Functions and Structures
• Activities and Participation
• Environmental Factors
• Personal Factors

These components are used to describe the functioning and disability of an individual in a comprehensive manner.

Body Functions and Structures

Body Functions refer to the physiological functions of body systems, including psychological functions. Body Structures refer to anatomical parts of the body such as organs, limbs, and their components.

Activities and Participation

Activities are the execution of tasks or actions by an individual. Participation is involvement in a life situation. The ICF framework assesses the capacity and performance of individuals in various domains of life.

Environmental Factors

Environmental Factors make up the physical, social, and attitudinal environment in which people live and conduct their lives. These factors can be facilitators or barriers to functioning.

Personal Factors

Personal Factors are the particular background of an individual's life and living, and comprise features of the individual that are not part of a health condition or health states. These may include gender, age, coping styles, social background, education, profession, past and current experience, overall behavior pattern, and character.

Applications

The ICF is used in various fields including:

• Health and Disability Statistics
• Clinical Practice
• Research
• Policy Development
• Education

Related Pages

• World Health Organization
• Disability
• Health
• Rehabilitation
• Quality of Life