The development of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health for Child and Youth (ICF-CY) Core Sets: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this systematic review is to verify the development of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health for Child and Youth (ICF-CY), investigating methodology and how many core sets have been created.

Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to carry out the systematic review. Six bibliographic databases were searched: MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Sciences, CINHAL, PEDro, and OT Seeker. Papers included in the study have the following characteristics: (a) pediatric population with different health conditions, (b) assessment of ICF domains, (c) development of ICF-CY core set in different health conditions, and (d) recommendation for clinical uses.

Results

Search strategies allowed to identify 270 research papers. After the elimination of duplicates, 154 articles were analyzed. Finally, 28 records were included for qualitative synthesis. Twelve different ICF-CY Core Sets were identified. Autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and cerebral palsy were the main health conditions studied at international level. Most of the studies involved international experts using Cieza’ methodology to inform ICF-CY Core Set.

Conclusions

After 15 years since the adoption of ICF-CY, it still finds some barriers to use. Concrete actions should be taken to develop further core sets following a rigorous methodology and to contribute implementing the ICF framework.

Implication for rehabilitation

• In 15 years since the implementation of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health for Child and Youth (ICF-CY), only 12 core sets have been developed.

• To develop ICF-CY Core Set, health professionals should follow methodology described by Cieza et al.

• Strong collaboration between low- and middle-income countries and high-income countries are recommended.

Keywords:

• International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health
• ICF-CY
• children
• youth
• core set
• systematic review
• disability

Disclosure statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Italian Ministry of Health with “Current Research Found”.