Improving Primary Health Care Data With ICPC-3: From a Medical to a Person-Centered Perspective

Area of Science:

• Primary Health Care Research
• Health Informatics
• Medical Classification Systems

Background:

• Previous International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC) editions (ICPC-1, ICPC-2) captured encounter reasons, diagnoses, and processes.
• A shift towards person-centered care necessitates a more comprehensive approach beyond purely medical perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the third edition of the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC-3).
• To highlight ICPC-3's role in facilitating a transition to person-centered primary health care.
• To detail the enhancements and expanded scope of ICPC-3.

Main Methods:

• Development of ICPC-3 by the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA).
• Inclusion of a fourth element: function-related information, alongside reason for encounter, diagnosis, and process of care.
• Expansion with new chapters for immunizations, screening, public health promotion, and condition-specific programs.
• Selection of classes based on frequency in daily practice, with less common concepts included as inclusions.

Main Results:

• ICPC-3 captures a more holistic view of health encounters, including patient activities and functioning.
• The classification accommodates specific programs (e.g., cardiovascular) and national/regional variations.
• Implementation in electronic health records enables feedback, information exchange, and insights for policymakers.

Conclusions:

• ICPC-3 supports a shift from disease-based to person-centered primary health care.
• The classification provides deeper insights into patient functioning, aiding clinical decision-making.
• ICPC-3 has the potential to improve primary care provision and information exchange across healthcare settings.