Understanding Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) 

In the context of SSDI applications, Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs), or work ability testing, is can be used to determine if and how an applicant’s physical and cognitive limitations could impact their work.  

Functional Capacity Evaluations are usually conducted by medical professionals, including physical therapists, and consist of a series of physical examinations and cognitive assessments specifically designed to address the applicant’s functional capabilities and limitations. 

How Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) Impacts Your SSDI Claim 

While FCEs may be requested by are not directly requested by the Social Security Administration (SSA), they can be used to to provide objective data about either and individual’s ability to work despite their physical or mental impairments. This is because 

FCE results help demonstrate how an impairment restricts work capabilities, directly impacting the SSDI claim’s outcome. For example, a claimant with a musculoskeletal disorder might undergo an FCE to assess their capacity for lifting, sitting, or walking, as these are critical in assessing the ability to perform sedentary, light, or medium and heavy-duty work. 

For anyone applying for disability benefits, understanding the process, implications, and outcomes of an FCE can be essential. 

Important Note: While an FCE can provide valuable information, it is typically used in conjunction with other medical evidence to create a comprehensive view of the applicant’s limitations. 

Types of FCEs: 

There are two main types of FCEs: 

• General FCEs: Evaluate the overall physical and cognitive capabilities of an individual and present a very broad understanding of the functional limitations. 

• Job-Specific FCEs: Focus on the skills required for a particular job, assessing whether an individual can meet the demands of that position. For instance, an FCE for a warehouse worker may specifically test lifting and carrying capacity. 

Elements of an FCE: 

An FCE typically consists of multiple components designed to measure both physical and cognitive abilities, such as lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, balance, and cardiovascular tolerance: 

• Physical Assessment: Includes tests for strength, flexibility, endurance, balance, and range of motion. Specific tests may include lifting, bending, walking, and repetitive movements. 

• Cognitive Assessment: Evaluates memory, problem-solving, and attention skills, which may be relevant for individuals whose disabilities affect their cognitive abilities. 

• Psychological Assessment: Sometimes included to measure stress tolerance, coping mechanisms, and emotional stability under work conditions, especially if the job is demanding in these areas. 

How FCEs Influence SSDI and Other Disability Programs 

The SSA often looks at FCEs along with other medical evidence when making a final decision. 

In addition to SSDI, FCEs can impact other disability programs, such as: 

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a needs-based program that also considers medical evidence to determine disability status, and an FCE can help demonstrate eligibility. 

• State Disability Programs: Some state disability programs require FCEs to assess an individual’s ability to work and determine benefit eligibility. 

Preparing for Your FCE 

If you have an FCE scheduled, a little preparation can make you more comfortable and perhaps even increase the validity of the test results

1. Understand the Evaluation Process: A little knowledge about what to expect can reduce anxiety. You may be asked to do things like lifting different weights, sitting or standing for a very long period, or even solving puzzles that show cognitive function. 
2. Bring Relevant Medical Documentation: Make sure you have all relevant medical records that indicate your limitations. This information will allow the evaluator to have a complete understanding of your disability. 
3. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear, as the physical tasks may require movement and flexibility. 
4. Rest Before the Evaluation: Come for the evaluation well-rested so that the examiner can assess what you are capable of doing on a normal day. 

Tip: Keep in mind that an FCE examination is supposed to be an objective process. Trying to exceed your actual limits could lead to injury or skewed results that don’t reflect your typical work capacity.  

What to Do After Your FCE 

After the FCE, you’ll likely receive a report summarizing your abilities and limitations in various physical and cognitive tasks. Here’s how to proceed: 

Review the Report Carefully: The report should accurately reflect your experience and limitations. If you find any discrepancies regarding what was written, discuss it with your health care provider or attorney. 

Keep a Copy for Your Records: A copy of the FCE report can be valuable as you might need to refer to it sometime later, especially in appealing a decision or seeking more tests. 

Challenging FCE Results 

If you disagree with the FCE results, you have options for challenging them. Here are some specific strategies: 

1. Seek a Second Opinion or Independent Medical Evaluation (IME): You may request another FCE from a different provider to verify the results. An IME conducted by an independent physician can offer an additional perspective, which may be especially valuable if there were inconsistencies in the initial FCE. 
2. Appeal the Decision Through the Social Security Administration: If the FCE results negatively impact your SSDI claim, you can appeal through the SSA. This process typically involves submitting additional medical documentation and may require a hearing. 
3. Provide Additional Medical Evidence: Include further documentation from doctors, physical therapists, or other healthcare providers that support your claim and clarify any limitations the FCE did not capture. 

Myth: Some applicants believe that FCEs are intended to disprove their disability claims. In fact, the FCE helps objectively quantify impairment with the purpose of developing a comprehensive view of an individual’s work capability. 

For further assistance, you can always rely on our team of experts at Trajector Disability! We’re here to help you understand your potential benefits and guide you through your journey!   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)