Functional capacity evaluation (FCE)

(Evaluation der Funktionellen Leistungsfähigkeit EFL) according to S. Isernhagen (assessment of work-related capability)
 

With the help of medical examinations and work-oriented tests, a patient's physical capacity with regard to their work activities and any impairments that still present obstacle to reintegration into work can be established on an individual basis. FCEs can be conducted on an outpatient basis. Hotel rooms are also available at the clinic for overnight stays. They can also be conducted within the framework of day care rehabilitation or as part of an assessment for an medical expert opinion.

FCEs provide the most realistic evaluation possible of the patient's capacity for work within safe ergonomic limits. The test procedure enables the patient's physical capabilities and deficits to be compared with the capacity ­required ­in their work to date or in a job that is being used as a reference. This means that the patient's ability to­ work in their previous role can be evaluated and an appropriate physic­al stress profile can be drawn up for a new role.

The FCE assessment is conducted on two consecutive half days and consists of the following elements:

  • Interview and examination by the doctor
  • Comprehensive test of the patient's capacity using 29 standardised tests for physical functions at work (e.g. lifting, carrying, working above chest height, climbing stairs/ladders, etc.) in accordance with "The comprehensive guide to work injury management" by S. Isernhagen
  • Structured evaluation of pain management as well as the patient's motivation and consistency 
  • Team-based analysis of results and discussion with the case manager on request

Additional explanations can be arranged on request (e.g. further imaging, medical consultations, occupational stocktake etc.).

If the evaluation is part of an assessment for an expert opinion, the results are discussed in a consensus meeting with the experts in question and recorded in an interdisciplinary summary together with a final overall assessment.