Functional Objective Testing for Successful Return to Work

A General FCE evaluates and documents an individual’s ability to perform within the 20 core physical demands of work. This evaluation is most commonly performed in cases where the worker is not able to return to a job, or when the purpose is to establish disability.

A Job-Specific FCE documents an individual’s ability to return to a specific job. It can also document areas where reasonable accommodations may be necessary and include recommendations to assist the patient back to their usual position.  A job analysis or a job description with physical demands is required to be able to complete this evaluation.

Post-Offer Testing is designed to help employers limit the risk of work-related injuries with high-risk jobs by making a conditional offer of employment based on the applicant’s ability to meet a job’s functional requirements.  A health history interview, musculoskeletal screening, and functional testing are included in testing.  A job analysis or job description with physical demands is required.

Fit-for-Duty evaluations help provide employers with an ADA-compliant test to determine a current employee’s ability to meet the physical demands of their job after suffering a personal injury or illness, or if the employee’s conduct on the job poses a direct threat to his or her own safety or the safety of others.  A job analysis or job description with physical demands and essential functions is necessary.