Published Paper Details:

Background: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) checklist is a standardized tool designed to assess and document a patient's functional status, helping in comprehensive rehabilitation planning. While it is included in physiotherapy education, its practical implementation remains inconsistent. The study evaluates the knowledge and application of the ICF checklist among clinical physiotherapists in Pune to identify the gaps between awareness and usage in rehabilitation. Objective: To check the prevalence of using ICF checklist for assessment and rehabilitation among clinical physiotherapists in Pune using self-made questionnaire. Methodology: This observational study was conducted over six months in Pune, with 170 physiotherapists selected using convenience sampling. A Google form questionnaire was distributed via Whatsapp and online consent was obtained. Data collection was done through self-reported responses curated with self-made questionnaire and materials used included pen, paper and mobile phones. Results: out of 170 participants, the majority (137) were aged 26-30 years. 85.3% reported having ICF in their curriculum, and 99.4% were aware of the ICF checklist. However, 57.4% do not use it rehabilitation planning, and 48.4% do not consider it important. 79.3% were aware of ICF codes and 66.5% found all components of the ICF checklist important. Additionally, 80.6% recognized the importance of assessing mental functions, 78.2% acknowledged the impact of interpersonal interactions on patients. 64.7% believed community, social, and civic life should be considered in rehabilitation. Conclusion: The study concluded that 99.4% of clinical physiotherapists in Pune are aware of the ICF checklist, however, it's application in rehabilitation planning is limited, with 57.4% not using it and 48.4% not considering it important. This highlights a critical gap between awareness and practical use.