Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
Objective, face-to-face assessments of an individual's capacity for work or daily living.
What it is
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) measures, through objective and observational testing, what an individual can currently do in relation to work. It looks at their capacity to perform the activities of their own role, an alternative suited role, or activities of daily living, and gives the referrer evidence rather than estimation.
We use proprietary software and a peer-reviewed, researched battery of standardised tests covering mobility, dexterity, strength, endurance and agility. Test selection varies with the purpose and nature of the referral. We run FCE in conjunction with our partner Metriks. Form Health has been running FCE training since 1999.
Who it is for
Referrals come from insurers, insurance brokers, occupational health providers and employers. Typical cases involve an individual whose physical function is reported as the main barrier to returning to work or performing daily activities.
FCEs are also used to test an individual's capabilities against TPD (total and permanent disability) policy definitions, including activities of daily living, activities of daily work and loss of independence. The assessment can stand alone or form part of a wider return-to-work programme through vocational rehabilitation.
What is involved
On referral, we review the requirements internally to confirm the right format for the case. The FCE is a face-to-face assessment, and its length depends on the pace at which the individual works through the tests and the demands of the job in question. Where a longer assessment would be more prudent, we discuss this with you before the assessment goes ahead.
The assessment uses a standardised test battery covering areas such as mobility, dexterity, strength, endurance and agility, selected to match the purpose of the referral.
Every assessment is conducted by a trained functional assessor. Our physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses and osteopaths all specialise in working with people whose conditions affect their ability to work or manage daily living.
What the referrer receives
You receive a report with clear conclusions on whether the individual can, in their present state of health, return to their own or an alternative suited role, or perform activities of daily living, depending on the nature of the referral. It identifies barriers to employment and, where appropriate, sets out work-focussed recommendations for further rehabilitation and for reasonable adaptations or modifications in the workplace.
The report also gives detailed conclusions on the individual's reliability of performance, symptom reporting and overall effort during testing. If a rehabilitation programme follows, the results provide a baseline for tracking progress.
Questions referrers ask
What is the difference between an FCE and an FCCE?
The FCCE includes everything in the FCE plus a set of computerised cognitive tests. It is the better option when an individual reports both physical and cognitive barriers to working or performing daily activities.
Can an FCE be used for TPD claims?
Yes. As well as assessing capacity to return to work, FCEs are used to test an individual's capabilities against TPD policy definitions of disability, including activities of daily living, activities of daily work and loss of independence.
What happens after you refer
Steps
- 1
Refer
- 2
Logged
- 3
Individual contacted
- 4
Assessment
- 5
Report to your inbox
- 1
Refer
- 2
Logged
- 3
Individual contacted
- 4
Assessment
- 5
Report to your inbox
Assessment client? See how vocational rehabilitation completes the claim.
An objective evaluation tells you where things stand. Our rehabilitation and case management take it from there, through to a sustained return to work.
Explore return to work servicesTalk to the team
Whether it is one referral or a programme of work, start with a conversation.