Value of using the ICF Core Set for patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions in Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities in South-Eastern Poland.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

A biopsychosocial model for assessing the functioning of patients with musculoskeletal diseases is essential for planning health services for this patient group. For this purpose, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and the 'core sets' created on its basis are used. The aim of this study was to validate and evaluate the effectiveness of the application of the ICF classification in the assessment of patients with musculoskeletal problems in outpatient rehabilitation facilities.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A group of 528 people of working age with musculoskeletal conditions receiving outpatient rehabilitation in south-eastern Poland were included in the study. The ICF Core Set for Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions was used in the study. The WHODAS 2.0 questionnaire was used to assess disability and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was used to assess quality of life.

RESULTS

In testing for significance of change at the level of ICF Core Set for Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions using the test-retest method, no significant differences were found for any category. There was a statistically significant correlation between the WHODAS 2.0 questionnaire total score and ICF categories, as well as a statistically significant negative correlation between quality of life assessment and ICF codes for function, activity and participation and environmental factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The study confirms the effectiveness of the use and feasibility of implementing the ICF Core Set for Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions in outpatient rehabilitation facilities in south-eastern Poland. The ICF Core Set evaluated is compatible with commonly used questionnaires for the clinical assessment of health status and quality of life.