title: A conceptual definition of vocational rehabilitation based on the ICF: building a shared global model.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is a conceptual framework and classification system by the World Health Organization (WHO) to understand functioning. The objective of this discussion paper is to offer a conceptual definition for vocational rehabilitation (VR) based on the ICF.
  
  
  METHODS
  We presented the ICF as a model for application in VR and the rationale for the integration of the ICF. We also briefly reviewed other work disability models.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Five essential elements of foci were found towards a conceptual definition of VR: an engagement or re-engagement to work, along a work continuum, involved health conditions or events leading to work disability, patient-centered and evidence-based, and is multi-professional or multidisciplinary.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  VR refers to a multi-professional approach that is provided to individuals of working age with health-related impairments, limitations, or restrictions with work functioning and whose primary aim is to optimize work participation. We propose that the ICF and VR interface be explored further using empirical and qualitative works and encouraging stakeholders' participation.
authors.affiliation: Swiss Paraplegic Research (SPF), Nottwil, Switzerland. reuben.escorpizo@paranet.ch
authors.forename: Reuben
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Escorpizo
authors.forename: Michiel F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Reneman
authors.forename: Jan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ekholm
authors.forename: Julie
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Fritz
authors.forename: Terry
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Krupa
authors.forename: Sven-Uno
authors.initials: SU
authors.lastname: Marnetoft
authors.forename: Claude E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Maroun
authors.forename: Julietta Rodriguez
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Guzman
authors.forename: Yoshiko
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Suzuki
authors.forename: Gerold
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Stucki
authors.forename: Chetwyn C H
authors.initials: CC
authors.lastname: Chan
mesh_terms: D003210:Concept Formation; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000145:classification* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational / Q000145:classification*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014944:World Health Organization