Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)

Functional capacity evaluations (FCEs) are a combination of tests that determine whether a person is physically able to perform specific job functions. FCEs are a key part of workers’ compensation determination.

Our focus on physical medicine and rehabilitation helps injured workers recover more fully and return to work faster.

Why Are FCEs Needed?

• Most medical evaluation processes do not include purposeful activities that represent actual work movements
• FCEs are part of a physician’s final impairment rating — determining the subject’s musculoskeletal status
• Most medical evaluations do not assess for effort or the presence of non-organic signs
• FCEs determine a subject’s level of willful participation in activity

Functional Capacity Evaluation Components

• Intake interview
• Musculoskeletal screen
• Cardiovascular test
• Static strength test
• Material-handling test
• Non-material-handling test
• Job-specific test
• Debriefing

When Should FCEs Be Completed in a Rehabilitation Program?

• After all necessary medical testing and treatment have been provided
• Patient has reached maximum medical improvement (MMI)
• Following a plateau in physical therapy
• After participation in work hardening or work conditioning
• Part of an independent medical exam (IME) process
• Fit-for-duty evaluation
• Existing worker requesting a transfer into a different, more demanding job