Functional Capacity/Abilities Evaluation

A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE), also known as a Functional Abilities Evaluation, is a comprehensive test procedure designed to determine the examinee’s current capacity to dependably and sustainably meet the physical demands of a specific occupation or alternative occupations. The FCE also assists in determination of the examinee’s capacity to meet the physical demands of domestic life and recreational activity.

Testing is typically completed in one day over a 6-8 hour period. Key elements of the FCE are the determination of the level of physical effort produced by the examinee and the analysis of the examinee’s reliability in reporting pain and disability.

At the conclusion of the assessment the evaluator provides a comprehensive report documenting the findings and observations, the examinee’s subjective reports, and an analysis of the examinee’s abilities and limitations pertaining to work, household, and leisure activities.