Thoughts on the discussion about the revision of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) scheme

Abstract

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) presents an innovative approach to functioning: the biopsychosocial model. Since then, the ICF framework and its explanatory scheme has been used in many settings, including health, social security, and education. Recently, some criticism has arisen and proposals have ensued regarding its revisions. Objective: This paper discusses previous proposals for revisions to the ICF scheme and present suggestions of a new one. Methods: We outline some of the suggestions of ICF alternative functioning schemes, and present some of their features. Results: We also propose our own scheme, highlighting its advantages over predecessors. In our proposal, current scheme components are kept and arranged equidistantly along a three dimension ‘ball shell’ structure connected by double-headed arrows. Our scheme is innovative in that it does not present any component as central, allowing the scheme to be more adaptable to the reality of each functioning profile. It is also dynamic, by rotating on 3 axes, making possible the central positioning of the most important component. The spheres for each component can be enlarged, demonstrating ​​the magnitude of each component. Conclusion: We hope to contribute to the current discussion on ICF scheme and its revision.