What is Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A comprehensive series of physical tests performed by a trained evaluator to measure an injured person's ability to perform work-related and daily living tasks.
Understanding Functional Capacity Evaluation
A functional capacity evaluation (FCE) typically takes several hours and tests lifting, carrying, standing, sitting, bending, and other physical activities. The results help determine work restrictions, disability status, and the need for ongoing treatment. FCEs are commonly used in workers' compensation and personal injury cases to objectively document physical limitations.
Examples
- 1Evaluator testing maximum lifting capacity after back injury
- 2FCE showing plaintiff cannot sit for more than 30 minutes
- 3Workers' compensation insurer requesting FCE to determine work restrictions
Related Terms
Impairment Rating
A percentage assigned by a physician that measures the degree of permanent physical impairment resulting from an injury, based on standardized medical guidelines.
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
The point in recovery when a worker's condition has stabilized and further medical treatment is unlikely to result in significant improvement.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
An assessment of the most an individual can do in a work setting despite their physical or mental limitations from medical conditions.
Life Care Plan
A comprehensive document prepared by medical professionals outlining all future care needs and associated costs for a catastrophically injured person.
Medical Malpractice
Professional negligence by a healthcare provider whose treatment falls below the accepted standard of care, resulting in injury or death to the patient.
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