The Knowledge and Use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Framework in Athletic Training

Abstract

In 2015, the Strategic Alliance adopted the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) as the disablement model framework for delivery of and communication about patient care in athletic training. The purpose of this study was to examine athletic trainers’ familiarity, knowledge, application, and implementation of the ICF framework. We used a cross-sectional online survey with 185 athletic trainers (age = 35 ± 9 y), which included 32 items focused on familiarity, knowledge, application, and implementation of the ICF framework. Most participants (n = 96, 51.9%) reported never learning about the ICF framework. During the knowledge assessment, participants scored 4.3 ± 2.7 out of 8, which is equivalent to 53.7%. For the sorting assessment, participants scored 10.9 ± 3.9 out of 18, which is equivalent to 60.5%. On the implementation matrix, the most frequently reported ICF tasks elicited by the athletic trainers included neuromusculoskeletal and movement, structure related to movement, and mobility. The most common ‘never elicited’ ICF tasks included voice and speech, sexual orientation, and structures related to genitourinary and reproductive system. Deficits related to the ICF framework exist. Athletic trainers reported low implementation across all ICF categories. The decision to not elicit information on these areas of health may reduce the ability to provide patient-centered healthcare.