Learn what a functional capacity assessment is, when to book one, and how this evaluation supports workers comp and return-to-work planning in NSW.
Not sure when your injured worker can return to their job? A functional capacity assessment can give you a clear answer through a simple process.
Read this article to learn all the facts you wonder about functional capacity assessments (FCA), a crucial tool in workers compensation and return-to-work planning. We’ll break it down for you – what it is, why it matters, and what to expect.
Functional Capacity Assessment 101: What is it and what’s it for?
Also called Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE), a functional capacity assessment is a professional and comprehensive evaluation of a worker’s health conditions and physical functionality. It takes into consideration the worker’s musculoskeletal concerns to:
- Check what the worker can physically do based on their job tasks
- Spot any issues slowing down recovery, like pain, weakness, or mental health factors
- Decide if the worker can return to their usual role or needs modified duties
- Guide relevant parties on the next steps for treatment and return to work
When Do I Need to Book a Functional Capacity Assessment For My Employees?
A functional capacity assessment provides a structured report with evidence of current capacity and physical restrictions — essential for any workers comp strategy. If you’re experiencing one of the following:
- The injured worker’s recovery has plateaued, not seeing improvements on their health conditions
- You’re unsure whether or when they can perform their pre-injury duties
- Difficulty obtaining a medical update from the injured worker’s treating provider(s)
- Additional clarity is needed for claim progression, suitable duties or medical review
It’s a sign that a functional capacity evaluation can come in to help.
Why does a functional capacity assessment matter?
Functional capacity assessment serves as an important part of workplace rehabilitation. By performing functional assessments, you’ll receive a detailed report identifying the worker’s current capacity, suitable duties and recommendations, ensuring treatment plan is tailored to the injury. In general, it has a couple of benefits for both employers and employees:
For employers:
- Reduce return-to-work risks
- Make informed decisions on suitable duties
- Provide reassurance for safe re-engagement in activities
- Support claims with evidence-based reports
For workers:
- Identify physical limitations caused by their injury or other health issues
- Receive education on minimizing re-injury risk
- Support a safe, structured return to work
What Should I Expect During a Functional Capacity Assessment?
Conducted by a qualified allied health professional (usually an exercise physiologist, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist), the entire process of functional assessments can take up to 3 hours – it’s designed to be a comprehensive evaluation to provide a complete picture.
Here’s what happens during a functional capacity assessment:
- First, the professional will discuss with the worker about their general health, including injury history, current health status, medical concerns, and medication use.
- Next, we’ll go over how the injury affects the worker’s daily activities — like their pain levels during chores / self-care and what tasks they find particularly difficult.
- Then comes the core of the assessment: evaluating functional abilities. This includes testing the worker’s range of motion, lifting and carrying capacity, manual handling technique, and positional tolerances – all tailored to the worker’s injuries and specific job demands.
We can perform the functional capacity evaluation at one of our offices with a fully equipped gym, or we can come to your place anywhere in the Sydney Metro Area.
After the Functional Capacity Assessment
Once the functional assessment is completed, an in-depth report will follow within 10 business days. The report will specify:
- Past and current medical conditions of the worker, as well as their injury circumstances;
- Objective & subjective measurements of the worker’s range of motion, functional abilities and independence to complete their activities of daily living;
- Factors affecting their performance;
- Recommendations on suitable duties and treatment.
Other FAQs about Functional Capacity Assessment
Who can do a functional capacity assessment?
The functional capacity assessment is performed by an experienced allied health professional. This can be a(n):
- Occupational Therapist
- Exercise Physiologist
- Physiotherapist
How long does a functional capacity assessment take?
The functional capacity evaluation can last up to 3 hours and a formal report is typically delivered within 10 business days.
Who can book a functional capacity assessment?
If you or your employee currently has an active workers compensation claim, any involved party can suggest a functional capacity assessment for the insurer to review. This includes:
- The insurer
- The worker themselves
- The employer
- The Nominated Treating Doctor (NTD)
- Allied health providers
- The treating specialist(s)
- The rehab provider (us)
Book Functional Capacity Assessment with AusRehab
As specialists in workplace rehabilitation and CTP claims, AusRehab is committed to delivering professional, personalised support. Backed by both passion and expertise, we don’t just offer a service — we guide you through every step of the process.
Still unsure if you need a functional capacity assessment? It never hurts to reach out. Let us help you understand which services best suit your situation — and how AusRehab can support your recovery or return-to-work goals. Talk to us today to know more about functional capacity assessment and all other workers comp services.
