Functional Capacity Evaluation
What is Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
FCE is a systemized approach using reliable, valid evaluation instruments to gather data used to determine consistency of effort and employability. It is an intensive, usually one-day evaluation that focuses on major physical tolerance abilities related to strength, endurance, speed and flexibility.
FCE is also known as Work Tolerance Screening (WTS), Functional Abilities Evaluation (FAE) and Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA).
What kinds of FCE does Doeberling-Muccio perform?
The three common applications:
Baseline: Addressing the full range of physical tolerances (average length: 2 to 3 hours)
Job Specific: Comparing physical tolerances with the task demands of the job (average length: 5 to 6 hours, may last up to 8 hours)
Medical-Legal: Evaluating residual physical tolerances, loss of ability, and potential for rehabilitation to help determine loss of earning capacity and future cost of care (average length: 6 hours)
The Work Ability Index (WAI) measures 7 aspects of work ability:
- Current compared to lifetime best
- In relation to the job demands
- Current number of illnesses or injuries diagnosed by a doctor
- Estimated impairment due to those illnesses or injuries
- Sick leave taken in the last 12 months
- Worker’s prognosis of ability in 2 years’ time
- Worker’s mental resources to perform