A Functional Capacity Evaluation, or FCE, is a test that is performed at the end of treatment to determine what, if any, restrictions a worker has in terms of the ability to perform his or her job. These tests usually require a prescription from a doctor, although the initial recommendation may come from your attorney, the insurance company or your employer.
Once your doctor declares that you are as good as you are going to get, there may still be questions about your ability to do your job as fully as you once did. Many times, workers fully recover from their work injuries and this isn’t a question. Or perhaps the job is not physically demanding and the issue doesn’t really come up. In other cases, however, an FCE is an important step in finalizing your claim.
The evaluator will assess what your job duties are and then test your ability to perform them. For example, if you have to lift heavy boxes, the evaluator will test your ability to lift and look at any limitations you might have. This information is not only useful for you and your employer but it can help in settling your case, as well. If you have a permanent injury or restriction, it can affect the value of your case. Even if it’s clear to you that you cannot fully perform your job any longer, the insurance company is not going to take your word for it. An FCE can back up your claims.
An FCE is a pivotal step in your workers’ compensation claim. Make sure you have an experienced attorney guiding you through the process.
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