Functional Outcomes in the WHO-ICF Model: Establishment of the Upper Limb Prosthetic Outcome Measures Group

In Brief A need for a systematic measurement of function for upper limb prosthetics has been identified. Using the World Health Organization-International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (WHO-ICF) model, it was clear that no single test was able to cover the entire cycle of prosthetic use from research to application in the field, but it was believed that a unified approach throughout the profession would allow better communication between the contributors to this process. Through a series of meetings, such an approach has been formulated and a special interest group formed that aims to analyze the current literature on the subject, and identify which tools already in existence have the psychometric properties that allow for valid comparison of data between centers and countries. After this analysis, recommendations for a toolkit of different validated tools will be made, along with identifying any gaps within the kit that need additional attention. A need for a systematic measurement of function for upper limb prosthetics has been identified. The Upper Limb Prosthetic Outcome Measures (ULPOM) group has begun to work towards this goal through an analysis of the existing literature and through promotion of the ideas to encourage a consensus within the profession. The initial analysis work has begun. Following this analysis, recommendations for a toolkit of different validated tools will be made, along with identifying any gaps within the kit that need additional attention.