FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY EVALUATION
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a physical assessment of an individual's ability to perform a work- related activity.
What Are the Purposes of the FCE?
The FCE may be used to determine:
• Goals for rehabilitation or readiness for discharge
• Return to work status (including full duty, modified/transitional duty)
• Case settlement
• Disability status
• Ability to meet job demands as part of a hiring process(for preemployment/post-offer testing)
What Are the Components of an FCE?
An FCE usually consists of:
• Medical record review
• Musculoskeletal screening
• Physical ability testing
Physical testing may include graded strength activities such as lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling; position tolerance activities such as standing, sitting, and stooping; and mobility activities such as walking, crawling, and climbing. An FCE may also include information about an individual's dexterity, coordination, balance, endurance, and other job specific testing.
Who Can Refer/Recommend the FCE?
• Physicians
• Case managers
• Other therapists
• Insurance carriers
• Employers/human resource personnel/risk managers
• Attorneys
