Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
Your doctor has sent you to the Occupational Rehabilitation Program for a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE). This is a series of tests to find out what you are physically able to do. Your doctor uses it to explain your current abilities. It is most often done after a work injury has healed. The FCE provides information about your overall abilities. These tests focus on overall body function not only the injured body part.
How is the FCE done?
A therapist does the testing in one day. It takes about 6 hours. An interview and brief exam take place before the testing starts.
You will be asked to do many activities such as walking, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, kneeling, stair/ladder climbing, and hand/finger movements. At the end, they will talk over the results with you.
A written report is sent to your doctor. The doctor reads and signs the report and returns the report to the therapist. Then, it is sent to the payer source and any other parties that you request.
How are the results used?
The results of the FCE can be compared to the needs of your job. This will help provide your doctor with the information listed.
- Is it safe to return to work.
- What you will be able to do without problems.
- Explain any job restrictions.
- Disability determinations.
How to schedule
Contact the Occupational Rehabilitation Program, at UW Health Rehabilitation Clinic inside Princeton Club East, 1726 Eagan Road, Suite 100. (608) 265-1221. Be sure to have the information listed below when you call.
- The written referral from your doctor (if your doctor didn’t send it to us.)
- Worker’s compensation carrier or other insurance company name or payer, address, phone number, contact person and claim number.
- Nurse case manager name and phone number (if you have a case manager)
- Name and phone number of your employer at the time of the injury
- Date of the injury
There are cases when you may be asked to sign a financial responsibility form for the FCE. Note: HMO’s do not cover FCEs (Wisconsin insurance law).
What do I need to do for the FCE?
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. We need to watch how your muscles work, so a tank top and shorts are best. Arrive on time for your test. Contact your employer and get a written description of job duties, and send to clinic. Be sure to bring a list of any medicines you are now taking. Also bring the names and addresses of those who will need a copy of the report.
If you have more questions, please call (608) 265-1221 for more information.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 08/20/2012
Copyright © 08/20/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5474
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