If you’ve suffered a permanent impairment or disabling injury at work, you may be asked to undergo a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE). The FCE is a physical assessment that can impact your workers’ compensation benefits. Before you complete the test, you should understand what it entails and how to prepare effectively.
What Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, or physicians. It evaluates your ability to perform physical tasks necessary for work. The test is typically conducted in a medical facility and involves various physical tasks to assess your capabilities.
During the FCE, the evaluator may measure your:
- Range of motion
- Physical strength
- Balance and coordination
- Ability to sit, stand, and walk
- Postural tolerance
- Capacity to push, pull, carry, or lift weights
The duration of the FCE can vary from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the extent of the testing. The evaluator will monitor pain levels, fatigue, and other symptoms throughout the test to assess the impact of your injuries on your work-related tasks.
What Is Included in an FCE Report?
After completing the FCE, the evaluator will prepare a detailed report outlining your physical abilities and limitations.
The report may include:
- A summary of your physical restrictions and limitations
- Recommendations for further rehabilitation or therapy
- Potential job modifications or accommodations
- Determination of whether you can return to work and perform your job duties
- Potential work tasks you can perform
The FCE report can significantly impact your workers’ compensation claim, as it helps determine your eligibility for permanent disability benefits and the extent of your impairment.
How to Prepare for a Functional Capacity Evaluation
While you cannot exactly train for an FCE, there are several ways to prepare beforehand to ensure accurate results:
- Dress comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes that allow you to move freely.
- Arrive on time: Arriving late can delay the testing process and negatively impact your results.
- Avoid pain medication: Refrain from taking pain medication before the test to prevent masking your symptoms or affecting the accuracy of the evaluation.
- Be honest about your abilities:Do not exaggerate or downplay your symptoms. The evaluator is trained to assess your capabilities and will note any inconsistencies.
You should also follow instructions carefully. Pay close attention to the evaluator’s instructions to ensure you perform each task as required.
Additionally, keep in mind that your behavior before, during, and after the test may be observed and noted in the FCE report. Therefore, you should maintain consistent behavior throughout the entire process.
Why Is the FCE Important in Workers’ Compensation Claims?
The FCE report helps determine your entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits.
The results may indicate whether you are eligible for Permanent Total Disability (PTD), Permanent Partial Disability (PPD), and/or job accommodations or modifications.
However, insurance companies often use FCE results to argue that an injured worker can return to work or perform specific tasks. They may even select evaluators who are biased toward employers.
If you believe the evaluation was unfair or inaccurate, you may have the option to request a second independent FCE from a different provider to verify the results.
A St. Petersburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help You Seek Workers’ Comp Benefits
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable guidance before and after the FCE. If the FCE report is unfavorable, your lawyer can help you challenge the findings or request a second evaluation. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation based on the FCE results.
Understanding the FCE process and preparing accordingly can significantly impact the outcome of your workers’ compensation benefits. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the evaluation procedures. Consider consulting with a legal professional to protect your rights.
Contact the Pinellas County Workers’ Compensation Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help
For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg workers’ compensation law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:
Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 513-3975
Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 349-1728
