The Work Readiness FCE is designed specifically to provide immediate feedback regarding the injured employee's ability to return to work at a specific job. This unique FCE is a low cost adjunct to the physician's return to work recommendations and should be used anytime the patient's return to work potential at his/her job is questioned. This evaluation can be completed at the worksite and provides concise, accurate, and objective information about what job tasks the employee can and cannot safely perform. This evaluation is A.D.A. compliant and job specific; matching essential functions to the specific tolerances of the patient. Some of the advantages include:
• Reduces or eliminates lost time claims
• Improves RTW rates
• Increases safety for injured worker
• Permits employee to maintain productivity & full wages.
FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY EVALUATION (FCE):
Functional Capacity Evaluations provide comprehensive assessments of general and/or specific work capabilities of an injured worker. Such evaluations are useful in determining readiness for return-to-work at a specific job, assessing general physical abilities, to aid in job search, or to provide data for medical-legal proceedings. These evaluations can be coordinated with a physician's independent medical evaluation (IME).
The Workers Choice Health Services Functional Capacity Evaluation is based on the "Isernhagen" model of work injury management and is designed specifically to accomplish three objectives:
1. We provide the referral source with clear, concise, and vocationally targeted recommendations in a user-friendly format.
2. We strive to match the essential functions of an injured worker's job to his/her current capabilities by using real work activities as opposed to simulated work.
3. Based on the results of the F.C.E. and in consultation with the physician, case manager, and employer we establish a safe, expeditious, and highly structured return to regular duties.
A wide range of assessment techniques and instruments may be used, keeping a strong eye toward validity criteria and consistency of effort. Our therapists utilize several dynamometers during a F.C.E. including a push/pull gauge, hand dynamometer, and a pinch grip gauge. We compare results of static isometric and dynamic isotonic testing as indicated. The Workers Choice Health Service F.C.E. evaluates multiple lifting, carrying, and reaching tasks using one or both upper extremities, as appropriate, and multiple functional activities such as ladder and stair climbing, crawling, kneeling, bending, walking, sitting and standing tolerances, etc.
Our philosophy is one of back to basics while providing the referral source with precisely what it is requesting. We can provide validity testing, symptom magnification evaluations, and have had multiple case experiences in expert witness testimony.
Our Functional Capacity Evaluation provides the physician, employer, and case manager with an objective and effective return to work tool. We are your work injury management specialists.
ABOUT WCHS | SERVICES | NEWS | STAFF | AFFILIATIONS | CONTACT US
WEBSITE DESIGNED BY: GAYLE HOLTON DESIGN • ghdesign@rrcol.com
