JCPSLP Vol 20 No 3 November 2018

to use the ICF further” were also present, suggesting some level of integration and acceptance. Model of ICF use We provide a preliminary model demonstrating the process of translating the ICF to practice based on our combined statistical and thematic findings (Figure 3). Learning and experiences related to the ICF contribute as a starting point for the cycle to influence ICF uptake and are sustained by use and continued education of the ICF, which close the loop. Factors determining level of uptake were knowledge level, which impacts perceived utility and both influences and may be influenced by, facilitators and barriers. Results that informed these interpretations are highlighted within the model. Discussion This exploratory study sought to determine how the ICF is used by Australian SLPs and whether there are any meaningful patterns in its uptake. While the benefits of the ICF are well documented and it is valued by practitioners, this study found limited uptake amongst the Australian SLPs who responded to this study, who also indicated that they used the ICF conceptual framework more than its

coding features. The following discussion integrates findings from the scaled and free response questions about respondents’ experiences with the ICF. Limited ICF uptake Almost two decades following the release of the ICF, SLPs, like other health professionals cited earlier, appear to accept the framework and underlying concepts of the ICF without embracing the system. Findings from the present study inform this situation, laying the groundwork for further investigations within the Australian SLP context and having implications beyond the field. Knowledge level Knowing about the ICF underpins its integration into practice. In this study, over half the practitioners reported having at least a good understanding of the ICF. However, given that knowledge levels were self-reported and most think in terms of the ICF framework alone, respondents’ perceptions about the sufficiency of their knowledge are likely to be overstated. This suggestion is supported by a recent physiotherapy study which found that qualified practitioners may know less about the ICF than their students (Di Tondo, Ferretti, & Bielli, 2018) who were recently exposed to the model at university.

Transition from theory to practice Detailed as easy by some; difficult by others Perceived utility High utility on Likert scale More advantages than disadvantages

Coding system valued less than framework

influences

will encounter

may be influenced by

Learning and experiences related to the ICF

Facilitators and barriers More barriers than facilitators

Use of the ICF

Knowledge level Good knowlege base Minority demonstrated rudimentary understanding

generates

impacts

Limited use reported in quantitative and qualitative data Use focused on framework alone Use influenced by setting and area of practice ICF as a way of thinking

Key Main concepts

Links between concepts

Learning loop

Quantitative analysis results

Qualitative analysis results

Figure 3. Model of ICF use

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JCPSLP Volume 20, Number 3 2018

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