Download the form here on our FAE services page.
Quick Overview:
The Functional Abilities Form (FAF) is a tool used by Alberta Health Services to assess an individual’s functional abilities and limitations. It helps healthcare professionals determine the impact of a disability or injury on an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and work-related tasks. Here are five supporting facts about the FAF:
1. Comprehensive assessment: The FAF covers various domains, including physical abilities, cognitive abilities, communication skills, and mental health functioning. This allows for a holistic evaluation of an individual’s capabilities.
2. Standardized format: The form follows a standardized format, ensuring consistency in assessing functional abilities across different healthcare providers and settings.
3. Collaboration with stakeholders: The FAF encourages collaboration between the healthcare provider, the individual being assessed, their employer or insurer, and other relevant parties involved in their care or return-to-work process.
4. Evidence-based approach: The FAF is based on evidence-based practices and guidelines to ensure accurate assessments that align with best practices in disability management.
5. Legal validity: The information gathered through the FAF can be used as objective evidence in legal proceedings related to workplace accommodations or insurance claims.
FAQs:
1. Who completes the Functional Abilities Form?
– Typically, a qualified healthcare professional such as a physician or occupational therapist completes the FAF after conducting an assessment of the individual’s functional abilities.
2. When is it necessary to complete a Functional Abilities Form?
– The FAF may be required when determining eligibility for disability benefits, assessing fitness for work after an injury or illness, evaluating workplace accommodations needed for individuals with disabilities, etc.
3. How long does it take to complete a Functional Abilities Form?
– The time required depends on various factors such as the complexity of the case and availability of medical records. On average, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour per assessment.
4. Can employers request completion of a Functional Abilities Form?
– Yes, employers can request the completion of a FAF to assess an employee’s functional abilities and limitations when considering workplace accommodations or return-to-work plans.
5. Is the Functional Abilities Form specific to Alberta Health Services only?
– While the FAF is commonly used in Alberta, similar forms exist in other jurisdictions across Canada. The specific form may vary slightly, but the purpose and content remain consistent.
6. What happens after completing a Functional Abilities Form?
– After completing the FAF, healthcare professionals provide their findings and recommendations based on the individual’s functional abilities. This information can be used by employers, insurers, or legal professionals for decision-making purposes.
7. Can individuals challenge the findings of a completed Functional Abilities Form?
– If individuals disagree with the assessment conducted using the FAF, they have options to seek second opinions from other qualified healthcare professionals or appeal through appropriate channels within their jurisdiction.
BOTTOM LINE:
The Functional Abilities Form is an essential tool used by healthcare professionals in Alberta Health Services to assess an individual’s functional abilities and limitations accurately. It promotes collaboration among stakeholders and provides objective evidence for disability management decisions in various contexts such as workplace accommodations and insurance claims.