Overview of FCE's (Functional Capacity Evaluations)
After a work-related injury there is much information that is necessary and helpful in moving forward with both work and workers’ compensation benefits. After the initial treatment of your injury, there may be ongoing concerns in returning to work and returning to full functioning. In this regard, you may be asked to have an assessment called a Functional Capacity Evaluation (“FCE”).
An FCE can be recommended by your employer or by the insurance company, case managers, physicians, or therapists. Generally a prescription from a physician is required, but any of these parties can ask for the evaluation to make determinations regarding your ability to return to work, and any future therapy or medical care that may be needed.
Questions will be addressed in the FCE such as: are you able to return to work? if so, what duties will you be able/not be able to perform? will you need further rehabilitation? if so, what will that consist of?
Whether your job requires physical or mental demands, the FCE can be individualized to assess your specific abilities to perform the particular duties of your work. The test should be performed by an evaluator who is a therapist, trainer, or someone specifically trained and certified in administering tests of this kind. He or she will review your medical records, and then design a test that will target objective measures of your abilities to perform your job duties.
For example, if your job requires lifting and carrying, the evaluator will record your ability to lift, walk with weight, pull strength, etc. The results should be compared against objective benchmarks. Caution, of course, should be used by the evaluator to assess your injury without causing further damage. The whole test should be a reasonable length.
After an FCE is finished, a report is generated which should include the results of the testing and a determination as to your range of physical and/or mental abilities with respect to performing your job. Specific tasks and movements to be avoided may be included, as well as other limitations and recommendations.
The report from an FCE may be used to tailor your employment, both in terms of timing to return to work, and duties that can be performed. It may also be used to evaluate further the workers’ compensation case, including any possible settlement offer, in light of what the FCE says regarding your present abilities and your future earning capacity.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
