Burden of treatment in the light of the international classification of functioning, disability and health: a “best fit” framework synthesis

Ana Carolina Goncalves, Cristina Jácome, Sara Demain, Katherine Hunt, Alda Marques*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Purpose: This systematic literature review aimed to (1) summarize and explain the concept of Burden of Treatment (BoT) using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) terminology, and (2) inform the development of a future Comprehensive ICF Core Set for BoT.

    Method: Searches on EMbase, Medline, CINAHL and PsycINFO were conducted. Only qualitative studies were considered for inclusion. The screening and data extraction stages were followed by a “Best-fit” framework synthesis and content analysis, using the established ICF linking rules. Screening, data extraction, quality appraisal and data analysis were performed by two independent researchers.

    Results: Seventeen studies were included in this review. The “Best–fit” framework synthesis generated 179 subthemes which identified that BoT impacts negatively on body functions and structures, restricts valued activities and participation and influences contextual factors through life roles, self-identify and relationships. The identified subthemes were linked to 77 ICF categories.

    Conclusions: This study is part of the preparatory phase of a Comprehensive ICF Core Set for BoT and our findings will inform the further needed studies on this phase. The use of ICF terminology to describe BoT provides an accessible route for understanding this complex concept, which is pivotal for rethinking clinical practice.

    Implications for rehabilitation
    Health professionals applying the ICF should consider the negative impact of interventions on patient’s life roles and self-identity, body functions and structures and on valued activities and participation.

    Health professionals who may be concerned about the treatment burden being experienced by their patients can now use the ICF terminology to discuss this with the multidisciplinary team.

    Poor adherence to rehabilitation programs may be explained by an increased BoT. This phenomenon can now be mapped to the ICF, and coded using a framework well known by multidisciplinary teams.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1253-1261
    JournalDisability and Rehabilitation
    Volume39
    Issue number13
    Early online date3 Jul 2016
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2017

    Keywords

    • review
    • burden of treatment
    • ICF
    • comprehensive ICF core sets
    • long term conditions

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