Functional Capacity Evaluation

What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?

A full-day (6-8 hours) or multi-day assessment designed to systematically assess an individual’s capabilities and limitations using evidence-based testing protocols to determine an individual’s ability to perform pre-injury employment activities safely, durably and reliably.

During an FCE, functional abilities and limitations from physical, cognitive and psycho-emotional perspectives are addressed as appropriate to the medical diagnosis. The FCE will evaluate work tolerance, durability, competitive employability, return-to-work readiness and provide next-step recommendations to maintain or improve work function, or if vocational transition is indicated.

Different types of FCEs:

• Medical-Legal FCE:
  These types of FCEs are conducted within a litigation context such as personal injury, medical malpractice, insurance, wills and estates. The evidence from the objective evaluation can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
• Rehabilitation/Return to Work FCE:
  These types of FCEs focus on evaluating an individual’s functional abilities and limitations in relation to returning to work, participating in vocational rehabilitation or vocational transition. They are commonly used in workers compensation cases and disability management. The goal is to assess current limitations, capacities and readiness for work or vocational activities. A customized rehabilitation plan is typically prepared based on the assessment findings.
• Cognitive FCE (CogFCE):
  A CogFCE is a comprehensive multi-day assessment that evaluates an individual’s cognitive abilities related to work and daily tasks, including memory, attention, problem-solving and decision-making.

Who Needs a Functional Capacity Evaluation and its Benefits?

An FCE is needed for individuals who have not been able to return to their pre-injury, accident or illness vocation or other pre-functional tasks such as domestic, childcare, recreation or leisure activities. During the FCE, an individual’s functional abilities and limitations are determined. The evaluation helps to clarify and determine the impacts on employment and other functional tasks.

Why Choose Ommi Health for Your Functional Capacity Evaluation?

FCEs can be completed by a number of healthcare providers. At Ommi Health, all FCEs are conducted by Occupational Therapists who are qualified and experienced in functional capacity evaluations. The FCEs are evidenced based, defensible, reliable and comprehensive.

We have experience with providing expert testimony as qualified witnesses in the Supreme Court of British Columbia. The lead Occupational Therapist, Simone Szarkiewicz, offers unparalleled expertise in Functional Capacity Evaluations.

The Ommi Health Occupational Therapists offer comprehensive assessments that cover physical, mental and cognitive health, providing a complete picture of each medical case.

We offer an individualized approach. The FCEs completed by the team at Ommi Health are specific to each individual case. They address the specific questions the client has requested to be answered. The approach is not one size fits all.

Located in Downtown Vancouver, our fully equipped clinic is easily accessed by transit. Parking is available on site.

Functional Capacity Evaluations can be combined with a Cost of Future Care Assessment.