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Functional Capacity Evaluation
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is an assessment for workers who have suffered injuries that could affect their employment opportunities. The worker's ability to perform work and their physical tolerances to a variety of real and/or simulated work activities is assessed.
A Job Demands Analysis (JDA) may be requested in conjunction with a Functional Capacity Evaluation to determine the physical demands associated with the worker's job. The JDA is a comprehensive assessment of the job tasks. This includes quantification (weights, frequency, and duration) of all work tasks.
Description of services
A Functional Capacity Evaluation collects objective information relevant to the determination of feasibility for employment. This includes the identification of individual strength, abilities, needs and preferences by undertaking the following activities:
- Subjective questionnaires
- Real and/or simulated work activities
- Consistency of effort measures
- Standardized tests
Admission criteria
The program is designed for workers:
- Who have suffered injuries that could affect their employment opportunities
- Who have no medical contraindications
- Whose current functional abilities and limitations need to be determined
The program is not appropriate for the worker who:
- Has a diagnosed or suspected brain injury
- Meets or exceeds the physical requirements of their job and is considered fit to return to work
- Presents with a medical condition that would put the worker at undue risk of harm
- Is currently engaged in a treatment intervention for the same injury
Length of service
An FCE is typically one to two days in length depending on the purpose of the assessment.
Service locations
Functional Capacity Evaluations and Job Demands Analyses are offered at WorkSafeBC-approved clinics throughout B.C.
Referral process
Workers are referred for an FCE or JDA by a WorkSafeBC officer. Attending physicians can refer workers to this type of assessment by verbally communicating this to the WorkSafeBC officer or through an Form F11.
Inquiries
Please call Health Care Services at 604 232-7787 or toll-free at 1 866 244-6404. Or visit the FCE contact details page for further information.