Download the form here on our FAE services page.
Quick Overview:
The Functional Abilities Form (FAF) is a tool used by WorkSafeBC in Canada to assess an individual’s functional abilities following a work-related injury or illness. It helps determine the level of disability and the appropriate accommodations that may be required for the individual to return to work safely.
Answer to the question: What is the purpose of the Functional Abilities Form?
1. Assessment: The FAF allows healthcare professionals to assess an individual’s physical and cognitive abilities, including their mobility, strength, endurance, coordination, and mental functioning.
2. Disability determination: Based on the information provided in the FAF, WorkSafeBC can determine if an individual meets the criteria for disability benefits.
3. Return-to-work planning: The FAF assists in developing personalized return-to-work plans tailored to each individual’s specific functional limitations and job requirements.
4. Accommodation recommendations: The form provides recommendations for workplace accommodations that will enable individuals with disabilities to perform their job duties effectively.
5. Communication tool: The FAF serves as a standardized communication tool between healthcare professionals, employers, insurance companies, and legal entities involved in managing disability claims.
FAQs:
1. Who completes the Functional Abilities Form?
– Healthcare professionals authorized by WorkSafeBC complete this form based on their assessment of an injured worker.
2. What information does the form require?
– The form gathers detailed information about an individual’s physical capabilities such as lifting capacity, sitting tolerance, walking distance, etc., along with cognitive abilities like memory or concentration.
3. How long does it take to complete this form?
– Completion time varies depending on factors such as complexity of injuries/illnesses and availability of medical records but typically takes around 30 minutes per patient.
4. Can employers request access to completed forms?
– Employers can request access only when they have received written consent from employees or are legally entitled under privacy legislation.
5. Can the Functional Abilities Form be used for non-work-related disabilities?
– No, the FAF is specific to work-related injuries or illnesses and is not intended for assessing non-occupational disabilities.
6. Are there any penalties for providing false information on the form?
– Providing false information may lead to serious consequences, including loss of benefits and potential legal actions.
7. What if an individual’s condition worsens after completing the form?
– If an individual’s condition deteriorates significantly, they should inform their healthcare professional immediately so that a reassessment can be conducted.
BOTTOM LINE:
The Functional Abilities Form plays a crucial role in assessing functional abilities, determining disability eligibility, planning return-to-work strategies, recommending accommodations, and facilitating communication among stakeholders involved in managing disability claims. It ensures fairness and consistency in evaluating work-related injuries or illnesses while promoting safe and successful return-to-work outcomes.