Understanding Functional Capacity Evaluations in a Worker’s Compensation Cases
Reviewed and contributions made by Michael Staley, MS, ATC, LAT, CWcHP
When an injury occurs on the job, the recovery process can become complicated. It is no longer is limited to the injured party, their physician and their insurance provider. Instead, the company, their insurance company and other parties are drawn into the scenario as well.
If you have filed a worker’s compensation claim, then you are most likely aware there will be additional steps in your recovery process. For example, you will probably be asked to complete a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) before returning to work and settling your claim.
At ATI, our worker’s compensation experts are available to guide you through the FCE process and assist you in returning to work.
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What is the Purpose of an FCE?
Simply put, a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) includes a series of tests that assess a client’s ability to safely return to work. An FCE provides scientific, unbiased data that can determine a patient’s physical and cognitive capabilities and whether accommodations need to be made in the workplace. These tests also collect data for worker’s compensation lawsuits and insurance claims.
Who Performs an FCE and Where?
At ATI, we have a combined team of physical therapists, athletic trainers and occupational therapists to perform FCEs. Each one has received specialized training and passed national certification exams to properly evaluate each patient’s specific circumstances and to provide objective, scientific data for all parties involved.
Our specialists work throughout the country in dedicated locations known as “hub clinics.” If you have questions about FCE’s, our staff will be happy to address your questions and concerns.
Why Would You Need an FCE?
There are two primary reasons an individual would need an FCE. The first is to determine a client’s ability to safely return to their job. The second is to determine a client’s capabilities in performing within their given occupation.
For example, after an injury, a physician, employer, insurance adjuster or claimant’s attorney may suggest or require an FCE. The FCE provides valuable data on what the person can do safely upon their return to work.
This data can be used to identify job modifications and adjustments that need to be made in the workplace. The data can also be used to either defend or dispute claims in a worker’s compensation case, assist with insurance claim closure and provide insight into future vocational plans and disability needs.
What Types of FCEs are Available?
At ATI we utilize a variety of FCE products across our platform. We use a range of products to appropriately measure and conduct tests based on the party’s specific situation. There is a job specific test as well as a general test available.
A job specific test is tailored to that person’s role at their organization. In this instance, the therapist relies on a detailed job description to guide the testing process. A warehouse employee, lifting and handling heavy products and materials, will perform different tasks than a construction worker who is performing manual labor and operating equipment.
On the other hand, the general test focuses on the person’s ability to perform a wide range of work-related tasks as well as identify their limitations. This test does not focus on the patient’s profession.
ATI has hubs throughout the country that perform FCE’s. Our clinicians draw from a range of methods and methodologies to provide all involved parties with accurate results. Such methodologies and methods include:
- KEY
- Matheson
- Functional Capacity Evaluation | Indiana Worker’s Compensation Institute (iwci.org) (Indiana only)
- Arcon
- BTE Workforce Solutions
How is an FCE Done?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation is an objective assessment. Our clinicians perform their FCE’s within a specific protocol, in an unbiased and professional manner, to guarantee the most appropriate outcome for the client.
An FCE typically consists of four parts:
- An interview
- A medical review
- *A physical examination
- The functional capabilities assessment
The type of assessment and how you are specifically tested will depend on your injury and your working situation.
However, despite the particulars of your given situation, an FCE typically measures the following elements:
- Material handling (lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying)
- Positional tolerance (squatting, kneeling, walking, reaching, bending, sitting, standing, crawling, balance, etc.)
- *Objective measurements for injured body parts (range of motion, muscle strength, circumferential measurements for swelling, etc.)
*NOTE: The KEY test is used at many of our ATI locations. The KEY test does not include a physical evaluation or objective measures in its testing protocol.
How are Results Compiled?
Results are compiled throughout the assessment. Once the examination is completed, these results are analyzed and compiled into a robust and easy to read report. This report allows all stakeholders a comprehensive overview of the assessment. It also provides a detailed review of the specifics that happened throughout the exam.
Scheduling Your FCE
If you are looking to complete an FCE, the ATI team is here to take you through the process. Our knowledgeable clinicians are here to provide guidance as well as thorough and objective feedback. For more information about physical therapy and workers' compensation, explore our Functional Capacity Evaluations page or schedule an appointment today.