International Classification of Function

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) was developed by the World Health Organization to provide standard language and a conceptual basis for the definition and measurement of disability at the individual and population levels. You have also seen this model in MBB. It integrates the major models of disability – the medical model and the social model – recognizing the role of both environmental factors and of health conditions in the creation of disability.

The ICF model illustrates that a person’s health condition can impact their body’s function and structure, reducing their activity and their ability to participate in the things they want to do.  Activity and participation are also affected by environmental and personal factors, and there’s a two way interaction between many of these factors. For example, reduced activity can lead to loss of strength, further limiting body function, activity and an individual’s participation in desired activities.  Inability to participate in the things one loves to do can lead to loss of motivation, further decreasing activity and participation. Each of these factors contributes to a person’s ability to participate in their relationships, vocation and community.

To illustrate how these factors interact, we’ll hear from UW Medicine patient named Emily and her parents, who graciously agreed to be interviewed for our students’ education.

Emily’s story

Emily and her family describe the impairments they noticed in her early childhood, the impact of these impairments on her activity and participation, and the personal strengths and family support that have ultimately allowed her to thrive.

Emily’s story: Environmental factors & participation

Emily’s story illustrates the critical role of the environment as she compares and contrast her function and participation in two different environments with different wheelchair accessibility.

Emily’s story: Personal factors & participation

Emily and her family describe her goals and personal strengths – strengths that have allowed her to participate fully in education, working towards her ultimate goals.