The FCE is a critical assessment tool designed to measure an individual’s physical and cognitive abilities, limitations, and overall functional capacity, particularly in relation to work tasks and activities of daily living. This assessment can be done as an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) or an Agreed Medical Examination (AME). The evaluators also review and address opposing expert’s reports.

The FCE involves a thorough battery of objective, performance-based tests that are standardized and widely accepted in the industry, including the use of state-of-the-art computerized JTech equipment and other sophisticated measurement tools. These tests are customized to address the specific needs of each individual and can be tailored to industry-specific requirements, ensuring that the evaluation is both reliable and valid.

The Physical FCE focuses on the physical abilities and limitations of an individual, assessing their strength, endurance, and overall physical function. The physical testing specifically identifies an individual’s tolerance related to sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, pulling, manual dexterity, reaching, squatting, bending, as well as measurements range of motion and muscle strength testing.

These physical tests are designed to identify an individual’s work capacity and the impact of any injuries or disabilities on their ability to perform essential tasks.

The Cognitive FCE, on the other hand, focuses on assessing an individual’s cognitive abilities and how these may impact their capacity to engage in everyday activities and work tasks. Cognitive testing identifies an individual’s ability to focus, concentrate and execute the tasks.

If an individual has cognitive impairments (e.g., memory loss or difficulty focusing), they may have trouble completing tasks such as lifting, carrying, or walking safely. A physical therapist can provide insight into how these cognitive issues influence the individual’s ability to perform physical tasks in daily life or at work.

In addition to these physical measures, the FCE evaluates the individual’s overall effort level, providing a comprehensive understanding of their functional capabilities.

Upon completion of the evaluation, a comprehensive report is generated that is clear, concise, and easy to understand. The report includes clinical reasoning, an interpretation of the testing data, and a detailed analysis of the individual’s functional abilities and limitations. When reporting on physical and cognitive interactions, the report can also thoroughly analyze how cognitive impairments affect physical tasks and how physical limitations affect cognitive tasks.

Our experts have testified in numerous civil trials regarding the residual limitations in personal injury cases. They have also qualified as experts in Long-Term Disability litigation related to the determination of the material and substantial duties of one’s own occupation and any occupation.