A functional capacity evaluation is a test that is performed by an occupational therapist or other healthcare provider to determine an injured worker’s physical abilities. Simply put, they are designed to provide objective information regarding the severity of a workplace injury or occupational disease — and assess how the worker’s limitations affect their ability to carry out their job duties. The functional capacity evaluation is a significant part of the Workers’ Compensation process that can impact your claim for benefits. The data that is obtained from a functional capacity evaluation can be used to identify job modifications and adjustments that may need to be made in the workplace.

What Happens at a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A functional capacity evaluation is usually three to six hours long and can sometimes be conducted over the course of two days. The evaluation is tailored to your specific workplace injury and job duties. For instance, if your job tasks involved moving heavy materials, you may be asked to lift weights or stack boxes. In the event your job duties rely on your cognitive abilities, you may be asked to take hand-eye coordination tests or other assessments.

Generally, during a functional capacity evaluation, the evaluator will conduct an interview, a medical record review, and a physical examination. The functional capabilities assessment is used to determine the following:

• Physical strength
• Ability to carry and lift objects
• Range of motion
• Muscle strength
• Circumferential measurements
• Stamina
• Flexibility

During these tests, the evaluator will ask questions to gauge yourlevel of your pain. They will also ask questions about your injury, your pain levels, and which activities worsen your symptoms.

The Functional Capacity Evaluation Report

After all the tests have been conducted, the evaluator will create a comprehensive report based on their findings. They will also render an opinion as to whether you are ready to return to the workplace — and in what capacity. Tial questionnaires must also be included, along with a summary form completed by the therapist.

The functional capacity evaluation report can be used to modify, terminate, or continue your Workers’ Compensation benefits.

What Can a Worker Do to Ensure an Accurate Evaluation?

The functional capacity evaluation is meant to assess your abilities to perform your tasks over the course of a full-time work week. To help ensure an accurate assessment, it is important to be physically active in the days before the evaluation — and perform activities that are similar to those that you perform in the workplace. Critically, you should answer all questions asked by the examiner honestly and thoroughly. Their report will be a more accurate assessment if you are candid with your responses. It is never a good idea to exaggerate or minimize your symptoms. If the examiner feels that you are capable of doing more than your test results reflect, this will be documented in the report.

Contact an Experienced Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorney

The Workers’ Compensation System can be difficult to navigate and it is vital to have a skillful attorney by your side who can guide you through the process. The Bellingham Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Robinson & Kole provide reliable representation to injured workers throughout Washington State and work to secure the best possible results in every case. We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation by calling 800.640.5616 or by using our online contact form. Se habla Español.