Does the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Rheumatoid Arthritis Capture Occupational Therapy Practice? A Content-Validity Study

Abstract

Background. The ICF Core Sets for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) constitute an application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Purpose. To explore whether the ICF Core Sets for RA include the areas of functioning and environmental factors that are typically treated by occupational therapists in their clinical everyday practice with clients with RA. Methods. In a three-round survey occupational therapists were asked about their intervention goals when treating clients with RA. The identified goals were grouped into goal classes that were then linked to the ICF. Results. 41 occupational therapists in nine countries named 533 intervention goals that were grouped into 48 goal classes and then linked to ICF categories of all ICF components. The goal classes self-confidence, relaxation and psycho-social well-being are not represented in the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for RA. Conclusion. The validity of the ICF Core Set for RA from the perspective of occupational therapists was largely confirmed.