Download the form here on our FAE services page.
How To Perform Functional Ability Evaluation
Quick Overview:
A functional ability evaluation (FAE) is a comprehensive assessment used to determine an individual’s physical capabilities and limitations in relation to their job requirements. It helps employers, insurance companies, and the legal community make informed decisions regarding work capacity and disability management. Here are five key facts about performing a functional ability evaluation:
1. Purpose: The primary purpose of an FAE is to assess an individual’s functional abilities in order to determine their suitability for specific job tasks or return-to-work programs.
2. Components: A typical FAE includes various components such as medical history review, physical examination, standardized tests, work simulation activities, and functional testing.
3. Qualified Professionals: FAEs should be conducted by qualified professionals such as occupational therapists or physiotherapists with expertise in assessing physical capabilities related to employment.
4. Jurisdictional Considerations: Each jurisdiction may have specific guidelines or regulations governing the administration of FAEs. It is important to adhere to these guidelines when conducting evaluations.
5. Objective Results: The results of an FAE should be objective and based on scientific evidence rather than personal opinions or biases. This ensures fairness and accuracy in determining an individual’s functional abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the purpose of a functional ability evaluation?
– An FAE aims to assess an individual’s physical capabilities in relation to their job requirements or return-to-work programs.
2. Who can perform a functional ability evaluation?
– Qualified professionals such as occupational therapists or physiotherapists with expertise in assessing physical capabilities related to employment can conduct FAEs.
3. What components are included in a typical FAE?
– A typical FAE consists of medical history review, physical examination, standardized tests, work simulation activities, and functional testing.
4. Are there any jurisdictional considerations when performing an FAE?
– Yes, each jurisdiction may have specific guidelines or regulations governing the administration of FAEs. It is essential to comply with these guidelines for accurate evaluations.
5. How are the results of an FAE determined?
– The results of an FAE should be objective and based on scientific evidence rather than personal opinions or biases, ensuring fairness and accuracy in determining functional abilities.
6. Can employers use FAE results to make employment decisions?
– Yes, employers can utilize the results of an FAE to make informed decisions regarding job suitability, workplace accommodations, or return-to-work programs.
7. Can individuals challenge the findings of a functional ability evaluation?
– In some cases, individuals may dispute the findings of an FAE by seeking further medical assessments or providing additional evidence related to their physical capabilities.
BOTTOM LINE:
A functional ability evaluation is a crucial assessment used to determine an individual’s physical capabilities in relation to their job requirements. Conducted by qualified professionals, it includes various components such as medical history review, physical examination, standardized tests, work simulation activities, and functional testing. Adhering to jurisdictional considerations ensures compliance with specific guidelines and regulations while maintaining objectivity in evaluating functional abilities. Employers can utilize the results of an FAE for making informed employment decisions while individuals have options for challenging assessment findings if necessary.