The article discusses the importance and application of the International Classification for Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in rheumatology. The ICF, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a comprehensive framework that integrates health information by focusing on body functions and structures, activities, and participation. It aims to improve the understanding and management of functioning, which is crucial for patients with rheumatic conditions. The ICF has been instrumental in developing Core Sets for specific conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, to assess functional outcomes and the effectiveness of interventions. These Core Sets are being validated and tested worldwide, and they are expected to enhance the quality and comparability of health and disability statistics. The ICF's universal language and structured approach make it a valuable tool for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers, contributing to better patient care, research, and policy-making. However, challenges remain, including the need to develop a classification for personal factors and to improve the understanding and application of the ICF among healthcare professionals.The article discusses the importance and application of the International Classification for Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in rheumatology. The ICF, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a comprehensive framework that integrates health information by focusing on body functions and structures, activities, and participation. It aims to improve the understanding and management of functioning, which is crucial for patients with rheumatic conditions. The ICF has been instrumental in developing Core Sets for specific conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, to assess functional outcomes and the effectiveness of interventions. These Core Sets are being validated and tested worldwide, and they are expected to enhance the quality and comparability of health and disability statistics. The ICF's universal language and structured approach make it a valuable tool for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers, contributing to better patient care, research, and policy-making. However, challenges remain, including the need to develop a classification for personal factors and to improve the understanding and application of the ICF among healthcare professionals.