Functional capacity evaluation (FCE) tests are used in workers’ compensation cases. Employers or workers’ compensation insurance providers may request an FCE if an injured employee is diagnosed with a permanent impairment.
If you receive notice of an FCE in your workers’ comp case, you need to know these things before completing your FCE test.
What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A functional capacity evaluation is performed at a medical facility by a physician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, or another qualified healthcare provider. The purpose of the test is to evaluate your ability to perform specific physical tasks required to work. Standardized, objective tests evaluate abilities such as your:
- Ability to walk, stand, and sit for different lengths of time
- Range of motion
- Physical strength
- Ability to push and pull various weights
- Coordination and balance
- Ability to carry various weights
- Postural intolerances
An FCE can take several hours. It includes physical activities. However, the evaluator may also use a variety of tools and machines. The FCE also tests the person’s pain levels and fatigue during and after specific activities. An evaluator also pays close attention during the tests to verify the person’s reported symptoms.
Functional capacity evaluations may be tailored to address specific tasks required for your job. The evaluator should have a copy of your job description, including the tasks required to perform your job. The FCE evaluates your ability to perform these specific tasks to determine if your impairment prevents you from performing your job.
Things You Need to Know Before Attending Your FCE Test for a Florida Workers’ Compensation Claim
An FCE test is not something you can prepare for before attending. You cannot study for the test. It is merely a measure of your physical abilities. Therefore, the only thing to do is perform the tasks to the best of your ability and be honest with the evaluator when a task is painful or difficult to perform.
However, several things to know before attending an FCE test for a workers’ comp case include:
- Arrive at the FCE testing facility on time. If you are late, the evaluator may reschedule your FCE, which could delay your workers’ compensation benefits.
- Dress in comfortable clothes and shoes that allow you to move freely.
- Review your medical records, including your doctor’s prognosis. Be prepared to answer questions about your injuries and medical care.
- If you have a pre-existing condition or prior injuries, talk with a lawyer before attending an FCE. You should not hide the conditions. However, an attorney can help you protect your rights regarding pre-existing conditions.
- Assume you are being observed and evaluated from the moment you arrive until you leave the parking lot.
- Pain medication could mask your symptoms during a functional capacity evaluation. Therefore, you may want to avoid taking pain medications before the test.
- Make a list of current symptoms and limitations you experience because of your injuries.
- Review your accident report and the details you provided. The doctor may ask you about the accident. Inconsistencies in your story will be included in the FCE report.
- You do not enjoy the same doctor-patient confidentiality during an FCE as you do with your private physicians. Anything you say could be included in the FCE report.
- Be honest about your pain level and abilities. Do not exaggerate your condition or symptoms.
An impartial healthcare professional should conduct your FCE test. However, the insurance company chooses the doctor to perform the FCE, which may mean the doctor is pro-employers. If you suspect the FCE doctor was not impartial or fair, contact our ’ compensation lawyers immediately to discuss your legal options.
What Happens After a Functional Capacity Evaluation in Gainesville, FL?
After you complete the FCE, the evaluator prepares a detailed report. You should receive a copy of the report along with your attorney, the employer, and the workers’ compensation insurance provider. The FCE report includes information about the evaluator’s observations and conclusions. Information in the report includes:
- Whether you would benefit from additional physical, occupational, or other rehabilitative therapies
- Suggestions of medical treatments that may improve your condition
- Limitations and restrictions caused by your impairments or disabilities
- A discussion of your specific job duties and your ability to perform the tasks giving your impairment
- If the evaluator believes you can return to your job without restrictions
- The types of job duties you can perform with your current disabilities and impairments
- Suggested accommodations that would allow you to perform your job duties
If you are totally disabled, the FCE will note that your condition prevents you from performing any meaningful activities that would earn an income. However, most FCEs result in an impairment rating. The impairment rating is a percentage based on your ability to perform your job.
For example, suppose the evaluator determines you can perform 80% of your job duties. In that case, the evaluator would assign a 20% impairment rating.
How Does the FCE Report Impact My Workers’ Compensation Claim?
The FCE report significantly impacts the outcome of a workers’ compensation claim. If you have an impairment, the report may require your employer to make reasonable accommodations for you to return to work. If you are unable to work or experience a decrease in earning capacity, you may receive disability benefits.
Permanent disability benefits are based on your impairment rating. Some injuries are presumed to cause total disability. However, your employer and the insurance company may try to prove that your impairment allows you to perform sedentary employment. Sedentary employment requires very little physical activity.
If you can perform sedentary employment within 50 miles of your home, you might not qualify for total disability benefits. You can appeal this decision and dispute the findings in the FCE with the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer.
Get Help With a Florida Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you were injured at work, your employer or the workers’ compensation insurance company may request an FCE test. Call Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at (877) 255-3652 for a free consultation. We are here to help you obtain the benefits and compensation you deserve for a workplace accident.
