Work Capacity Evaluation vs. Functional Capacity Evaluation
Work Capacity Evaluation
A job-specific assessment comparing an individual's abilities to the demands of a specific occupation or position.
Functional Capacity Evaluation
A performance-based assessment of the work a person can safely do, whose results are usually reported in DOT terminology (Allison et al., 2018; U.S. Department of Labor, 1991). A 2018 best practices guideline describes two primary types: a job or occupation specific FCE, matched to the demands of a particular job or occupation, and an any occupation FCE, not matched to a particular job (Allison et al., 2018).
Learn more about Functional Capacity Evaluation →| Dimension | Work Capacity Evaluation | Functional Capacity Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Job- or occupation-specific | Job or occupation specific, or any occupation |
| Output | Can / cannot perform the target job | Strength, tolerance, and demand profile |
| Typical use | Return-to-work decisions | Vocational opinion foundation, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) analyses, earning capacity (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) |
When to use Work Capacity Evaluation
Use a work capacity evaluation when the target occupation is defined and the question is whether the individual can perform it.
When to use Functional Capacity Evaluation
Use an FCE when work capacity must be quantified: an any occupation FCE across a range of possible occupations, or a job or occupation specific FCE against a particular job's demands (Allison et al., 2018).
Where they overlap
Both involve physical testing. Work capacity evaluations often use FCE-style protocols customized to the target job's demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more useful in litigation?
Depends on the question. FCE is generally more versatile for vocational and earning capacity opinions; work capacity evaluation is useful when a specific job is the issue.
References
- U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. (1991). Dictionary of occupational titles (4th ed., rev.). U.S. Government Printing Office. dol.govGovernment
- Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, United States Code (2018). ada.govCase Law
- Allison, S., Galper, J., Hoyle, D., & Mecham, J. (2018). Current concepts in functional capacity evaluation: A best practices guideline. Occupational Health Special Interest Group, Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. orthopt.orgOrganization
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