What is an Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive assessment conducted by healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, to evaluate an individual's physical abilities, limitations, and functional status related to work or other activities.
The primary goal of an FCE is to determine a person's capacity to perform various tasks and activities within a work or functional setting.
During an FCE, the client typically undergoes a series of standardized tests, exercises, and activities that simulate job-related tasks or daily living activities. These assessments may include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, bending, reaching, typing, gripping, and other movements relevant to the individual's job or daily activities.
The evaluation is often used in a variety of contexts, including:
1. Return-to-work decisions: Determining whether an individual is physically capable of returning to their previous job duties after an injury, illness, or surgery.
2. Disability determination: Assessing an individual's functional limitations and abilities for the purpose of determining disability status and eligibility for benefits.
3. Rehabilitation planning: Providing valuable information for developing personalized rehabilitation programs aimed at improving functional abilities and facilitating return to work or daily activities.
4. Job placement: Matching individuals with appropriate job roles based on their functional abilities and limitations.
The results of the FCE help healthcare providers, employers, insurers, and rehabilitation professionals make informed decisions regarding the individual's work capabilities, rehabilitation needs, and potential accommodations. The evaluation is tailored to each individual's specific job requirements and functional goals, and it typically involves a detailed report summarizing the findings and recommendations based on the assessment results.
As certified functional capacity evaluators (CFCE), we provide a specialized view of our workers in regards to their functional use of their hands and upper bodies. If you have any questions, please contact us at Soma Hand Therapy 615-800-8017 or email us at admin@somahand.com
