Physikalische Medizin, Rehabilitationsmedizin, Kurortmedizin 2005; 15 - A29
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-917887

Validation of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Perspective of Occupational Therapists

I Kirchberger 1, A Cieza 1, T Stamm 1, G Stucki 1
  • 1ICF Forschungstelle der WHO CC FIC (DIMDI), Institut für Gesundheits- und Rehabilitationswissenschaften, München

Purpose: The 'Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)' is an application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and represents the typical spectrum of problems in functioning of patients with RA. The objective of this study was to validate this ICF Core Set from the perspective of occupational therapists (OTs).

Methods: OTs experienced in RA treatment were asked about their intervention goals in a three-round electronic mail survey using the Delphi technique. Named intervention goals were compiled, umbrella terms defined and the OTs were asked whether they consider the goal classes as relevant. The goal classes were then linked to the ICF by two persons. The degree of agreement was calculated by means of Kappa statistic.

Results: 41 OTs in 9 countries named 533 intervention goals. 48 goal classes were identified, covering all ICF components. 5 goal classes were linked to the yet not developed ICF component Personal factors. The goal classes addressing self-confidence, relaxation and psycho-social well-being are not completely represented by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for RA. The goal class addressing the ability of performing meaningful activities is not exactly covered by the ICF categories available. Kappa statistic for agreement reached 0.58 (95% bootstrapped CI 0.50–0.69).

Discussion: The validity of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for RA was largely supported by the perspective of OTs. However, some issues raised in this study that are currently not covered by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for RA. They need to be investigated further and considered in the revision of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for RA.

References:

WHO. International Classicication of Functioning, Disability and Health: ICF. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2001.Stucki G, Cieza A, Geyh S, Battistella L, Lloyd J, Symmons D, Kostanjsek N, Schouten J. ICF Core Sets for rheumatoid arthritis. J Rehabil Med 2004; Suppl 44:87–93.