Download the form here on our FAE services page.
Quick Overview:
In order to facilitate a timely return to work for individuals with disabilities, the Functional Abilities Form (FAF) plays a crucial role. This form assesses an individual’s functional abilities and limitations, allowing employers and other stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding accommodation and rehabilitation plans. Here are five important facts about the FAF:
1. Purpose: The primary purpose of the FAF is to evaluate an individual’s physical, cognitive, and psychosocial abilities in relation to their job requirements. It helps identify any necessary workplace modifications or accommodations that may be required for a successful return to work.
2. Assessment Process: The assessment process involves gathering information from various sources, including medical professionals, occupational therapists, and vocational experts. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate evaluation of an individual’s capabilities.
3. Legal Compliance: The use of the FAF is essential for ensuring legal compliance with disability legislation in Canada. By utilizing this standardized form, employers can demonstrate their commitment to accommodating employees with disabilities as mandated by law.
4. Individualized Approach: Each FAF assessment is tailored specifically to the individual being evaluated, taking into account their unique circumstances and job requirements. This personalized approach allows for fair and accurate evaluations that promote successful return-to-work outcomes.
5. Collaboration among Stakeholders: The completion of the FAF requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders such as healthcare providers, employers, insurers, legal professionals, etc., ensuring all parties have input in developing appropriate accommodation plans.
FAQs:
1. Are employers legally obligated to use the Functional Abilities Form?
– While there is no explicit legal requirement mandating its usage at all times,
using the FAF demonstrates compliance with disability legislation
regulations.
2.Can healthcare professionals complete the Functional Abilities Form?
– Yes! Healthcare professionals like physicians or occupational therapists play
a vital role in completing sections related to medical conditions/limitations.
3.What happens if an employee refuses to complete the Functional Abilities Form?
– If an employee refuses, it may impede their employer’s ability to provide
appropriate accommodations and could potentially impact their return-to-work
process.
4. Is the Functional Abilities Form valid across all Canadian jurisdictions?
– While the FAF is widely accepted, specific jurisdictions may have unique
requirements or variations in its implementation. It’s important to consult
local regulations for any jurisdiction-specific guidelines.
5.What happens after completing the Functional Abilities Form?
– Once completed, stakeholders can use the information gathered from the FAF
to develop a tailored accommodation plan that supports a timely and successful
return to work.
6.Can employers request additional medical information beyond what is provided in the FAF?
– Employers can only request additional medical information if it is directly related
to determining appropriate workplace accommodations or return-to-work plans.
7.How often should an individual’s functional abilities be reassessed using this form?
– The frequency of reassessment depends on various factors such as changes in an
individual’s health condition or job requirements. Regular reassessments are crucial,
especially when significant changes occur.
BOTTOM LINE:
The Functional Abilities Form serves as a valuable tool for facilitating timely returns to work for individuals with disabilities. By accurately assessing an individual’s capabilities and limitations, employers can make informed decisions regarding necessary accommodations and rehabilitation plans. Collaboration among stakeholders ensures fair evaluations while complying with disability legislation.