Identification of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) codes most frequently used to describe functioning in children: a systematic review - Scorecard - MDSpire

Identification of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) codes most frequently used to describe functioning in children: a systematic review

  • By

  • Idalina Maria Santos Vieira Lisboa Bordalo

  • Carla Martins Pereira

  • César Fonseca

  • Isabel Bico

  • June 19, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Analysis of Commonly Utilized International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Codes for Describing Child Functioning: A Systematic Review

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionChild Functioning
Key MechanismsBiopsychosocial model of health, interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Target PopulationChildren aged 0–18 years across various health conditions.
Care SettingClinical, public health, research, and educational contexts.

Key Highlights

  • Identification of frequently used ICF categories in pediatric assessments.
  • Predominance of activities and participation, and environmental factors in ICF codes.
  • Support for multidisciplinary assessment and policy development.
  • Emphasis on inclusive, diagnosis-independent assessment frameworks.
  • Development of a Portuguese National Functioning Table for Children.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize ICF categories for assessing functioning in children regardless of health condition.

Management

  • Implement biopsychosocial models in pediatric care and policy.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Capture real-life functioning through ICF as a health outcome measure.

Risks

  • Children with chronic conditions may experience lower school satisfaction and well-being.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Children with chronic conditions and disabilities.

Higher healthcare utilization among children with multiple comorbidities.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Adopt the ICF framework for comprehensive assessments.
  • Encourage integrated approaches to pediatric care and education.
  • Address both clinical and socioeconomic dimensions in care.

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