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WorkSafeBC

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Permanent Functional Impairment (PFI) Assessment

A Permanent Functional Impairment (PFI) Assessment is performed on an injured worker to help assess the degree of physical impairment incurred as a result of the worker's injury.

Description of services

The PFI provider can perform:

  • A standardized platform-based PFI assessment conducted by a team of two: a PFI physician and a PFI clinician (a physiotherapist, an occupational therapist, or a kinesiologist)
  • A PFI physical examination conducted by a PFI physician

The Board officer determines which type of PFI assessment will be performed based on the complexity of the worker's injury.

Admission criteria

A PFI assessment is suitable for workers who:

  • Have reached a medical "plateau" (medically stable and the condition is not expected to materially change over the next 12 months)

A PFI assessment is not appropriate for the worker who:

  • Presents with a medical condition that would put the worker at undue risk of harm
  • Is currently engaged in another treatment intervention for the same injury

Not all claims are suitable for referral to a PFI provider. Claims with an accepted psychological condition, or that have multiple complex injuries will be assessed by a WorkSafeBC Disability Awards medical advisor.

Length of service

The PFI assessment is completed within one day.

Service locations

PFI assessments are offered at WorkSafeBC-approved clinics throughout B.C.

Referral process

Workers are referred for a PFI assessment by a WorkSafeBC officer. Attending physicians can refer a worker for this assessment, by verbally communicating this to the WorkSafeBC officer or through a Form F11.

Bulletins

Inquiries

Please call Health Care Services at 604 232-7787 or toll-free at 1 866 244-6404. Or visit the PFI contact details page for further information.