When employees suffer a workplace injury, proving the extent of their physical limitations can be crucial to obtaining appropriate compensation. A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) plays an essential role in assessing how the injury impacts your ability to perform job-related tasks.
Understanding the purpose of an FCE and how it fits into workers’ compensation claims can help employees secure the benefits they deserve. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 to request a free legal consultation.
What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a series of tests conducted by a medical professional to assess an injured worker’s physical abilities and limitations. The evaluation measures a wide range of physical tasks, including lifting, bending, standing, and other movements necessary for job performance. The goal is to determine the employee’s ability to return to work and whether any permanent restrictions exist.
Components of an FCE
An FCE typically includes:
- Range of Motion Tests: To assess flexibility and mobility.
- Strength Tests: To evaluate physical strength and endurance.
- Postural Tolerances: To measure how long you can sit, stand, or maintain various positions.
- Functional Tasks: Such as lifting, carrying, or pushing, which mimic job duties.
The results of these tests are compiled into a detailed report that provides a clear picture of what an employee can and cannot do following a workplace injury.
Why is an FCE Important for Workers’ Compensation Claims?
An FCE can be a key piece of evidence in workers’ compensation claims, as it provides an objective assessment of your functional abilities. The evaluation helps both employees and their legal representatives present a stronger case for compensation by showing the specific limitations caused by the injury.
How an FCE Impacts Your Claim
- Return-to-Work Assessments: An FCE can help determine whether you are fit to return to your previous job or if modifications need to be made.
- Disability Rating: The findings from the FCE can contribute to your overall disability rating, which affects the amount of compensation you may receive.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you are unable to return to your former position, an FCE can support your need for vocational training or rehabilitation.
When Should an FCE Be Conducted?
An FCE is usually performed after you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), meaning your condition is not expected to improve further with medical treatment. It’s essential to wait until this point, as undergoing an FCE too early could result in an inaccurate assessment of your long-term capabilities.
Additionally, an FCE may be requested if there is a dispute between your doctor and the workers’ compensation insurance provider regarding the extent of your injury. In such cases, the FCE can provide an objective third-party assessment to clarify your physical limitations.
What to Expect During an FCE
The FCE process is generally spread over one or two days and lasts several hours. During the evaluation, the medical professional will guide you through a variety of physical tasks tailored to your job requirements. It’s important to be honest about your abilities, as exaggerating or minimizing your pain or limitations could harm your claim.
Tips for a Successful FCE
- Communicate Clearly: If a task causes pain or discomfort, let the evaluator know.
- Stay Consistent: Inconsistent results may raise red flags with the evaluator or the workers’ compensation insurer.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: The evaluator will explain each task in detail—be sure to perform them as instructed.
How PLBH Can Help with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
An FCE can provide valuable insight into the extent of your injuries, but navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging. PLBH is here to guide you through every step of the process, from scheduling the FCE to ensuring that the results are properly used to support your claim.
Common Challenges Employees Face
- Disputed Results: In some cases, the insurance company may dispute the findings of the FCE, leading to delays in compensation.
- Incomplete Evaluations: If the FCE does not cover all aspects of your job duties, the report may not fully reflect your limitations.
If you encounter these or other challenges, PLBH can help you present a strong case, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the workers’ compensation process.
Contact PLBH for Legal Support
If you have suffered a workplace injury and need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, including arranging for a Functional Capacity Evaluation, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation and benefits you deserve after a workplace injury.