International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: Catalyst for interprofessional education and...

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Rehabilitation Sciences
• Public Health

Background:

• Patient-centred and community-based care are crucial for health equity.
• The World Health Organization recommends the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework to enhance patient-centred interprofessional care.
• Stellenbosch University has integrated the ICF framework into its Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP) strategy since 2010.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of medical students and preceptors using the ICF framework within an IPECP strategy.
• To assess patient perceptions of care received through this interprofessional approach.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of ICF in fostering patient-centred care and interprofessional collaboration.

Main Methods:

• Associative Group Analysis methodology was employed for data collection.
• The study involved 68 participants: 37 medical students, 16 preceptors, and 15 patients.
• Data were gathered on the experiences of students and preceptors using ICF and patient perceptions of care.

Main Results:

• Medical students reported that ICF facilitated a patient-centred approach and highlighted the importance of patient context.
• Patients felt heard, valued, and well-cared for during their interactions.
• Preceptors, initially required to use ICF, recognized its benefits for interprofessional care, teamwork, and job satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• The integration of IPECP using the ICF framework provides an authentic learning experience.
• ICF acts as a catalyst for positive change, promoting effective interprofessional collaboration and patient-centred care.
• The study demonstrates the value of ICF in improving health equity through enhanced interprofessional practice.