Twelve tips for teaching the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health with a view to enhancing a biopsychosocial approach to care

Abstract

The World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health has the power to shape professional behaviour and positively influence all aspects of health and social care practice. The visual depiction of the ICF framework belies the complexity of this multifaceted classification and coding system which students and practitioners can find challenging to grasp. This guide offers twelve integrated practical tips to help health and social care educators embed the ICF throughout the curriculum with a view to supporting student learning and ultimately interprofessional and inclusive practice.

Keywords:

• International Classification of Functioning
• Disability and Health
• ICF; curriculum
• health and social care (HSC)
• interprofessional

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ingrid Scholten

Ingrid Scholten, Edt, is a speech pathologist and Senior Lecturer at Flinders University, experienced in shaping significant student learning through curriculum development and enquiry-based learning.

Sarah Barradell

Physiotherapist Sarah Barradell, MSc, is a Senior Lecturer at Swinburne University. Academic pursuits include health professional education, staff-student partnerships and participation in the scholarship of teaching and learning.

Jane Bickford

Jane Bickford, PhD, is a speech pathologist and Senior Lecturer at Flinders University. Her interests include professional competency development, digital literacy in health professional education, and the application of a population-based view of health to professional practice.

Monica Moran

Monica Moran, DSocSc, as Associate Professor with the Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, occupational therapist Monica Moran supports rural health workforce development through the creation of authentic student learning experiences, support strategies, and research and evaluation of integrated team programs within vulnerable Australian communities.