Have you ever needed to identify if a claimant is physically able to return to work?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a systematic method of determining an individual’s ability to perform purposeful and meaningful tasks in a safe and dependable manner. It involves an in-depth customised evaluation that combines both objective measures and professional clinical judgement in order to determine a client’s current capacity. Consideration is given to the effort provided, the reliability of symptom reporting, as well as physical tolerances e.g. postural tolerances, strength, endurance, speed and flexibility and psycho-social limitations. A report of the findings and recommendations is generated and is utilised to facilitate case resolution by informing the future management and appropriate intervention strategies.
The general purpose of the FCE is to:
- Improve the likelihood that an individual will be safe in the performance of work tasks by determining the match between the client’s capabilities and the demands of his/her job, and identify any abilities and deficits. By identifying what tasks can be performed and what tasks cannot or should be avoided so, the risk of injury can be diminished.
- Facilitate an individual’s performance by identifying what can and what cannot be performed and recommending interventions to address any shortfalls, e.g. further rehabilitation, ergonomic work systems analysis.
- Determine an individual’s overall work capability for the purpose of re-entry into the work force or for redeployment or for the determination of permanent impairment.
