Download the form here on our FAE services page.
Quick Overview:
A Functional Abilities Evaluation (FAE) is a comprehensive assessment conducted by trained healthcare professionals to determine an individual’s physical and cognitive abilities in relation to their job requirements. It helps employers, insurance companies, and the legal community make informed decisions regarding disability management and return-to-work planning.
Supporting Facts:
1. Objective Assessment: FAEs are designed to provide objective information about an individual’s functional capabilities, focusing on their ability to perform specific tasks related to their job.
2. Job-Specific Analysis: The evaluation takes into account the essential duties of a particular job, ensuring that the assessment is tailored to the specific demands of that role.
3. Multidisciplinary Approach: FAEs involve various healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists who collectively assess different aspects of an individual’s abilities.
4. Evidence-Based Results: The evaluation process follows standardized protocols based on scientific research and clinical expertise, ensuring reliable results that can be used for decision-making purposes.
5. Return-to-Work Planning Tool: FAEs help develop appropriate strategies for individuals with disabilities or injuries to safely return to work while considering any necessary accommodations or modifications.
FAQs:
1. What is the purpose of a Functional Abilities Evaluation?
The primary purpose of an FAE is to assess an individual’s functional capabilities in relation to their job requirements for disability management and return-to-work planning purposes.
2. Who can request a Functional Abilities Evaluation?
Employers, insurance companies, and legal professionals often request FAE services when making decisions related to workplace accommodations, claims adjudication processes, or litigation proceedings.
3. How long does a Functional Abilities Evaluation take?
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case but typically ranges from 4-8 hours spread over multiple sessions if needed.
4. Is there any preparation required before undergoing a Functional Abilities Evaluation?
Individuals should bring relevant medical documentation such as medical reports, diagnostic imaging results, and a list of current medications. They should also wear comfortable clothing suitable for physical activities.
5. Can an individual fail a Functional Abilities Evaluation?
FAEs are not pass or fail assessments. Instead, they provide objective information about an individual’s functional abilities to guide decision-making regarding disability management and return-to-work planning.
6. Are Functional Abilities Evaluations standardized across jurisdictions in Canada?
While there are common principles and guidelines followed nationwide, specific protocols may vary slightly based on provincial regulations and jurisdictional requirements.
7. How can the results of a Functional Abilities Evaluation be used?
The evaluation results can be utilized by employers to determine suitable accommodations or modified duties for employees with disabilities or injuries. Insurance companies may use the findings to assess claims validity, while legal professionals may rely on them as evidence in litigation proceedings.
BOTTOM LINE:
A Functional Abilities Evaluation is a comprehensive assessment that objectively determines an individual’s physical and cognitive capabilities related to their job requirements. It assists employers, insurance companies, and the legal community in making informed decisions regarding disability management and return-to-work planning. The evaluation process follows standardized protocols based on scientific research, ensuring reliable results that can be used for various purposes across different jurisdictions in Canada.