The types of Functional Evaluations the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Alberta uses

The types of Functional Evaluations the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of Alberta and what each is intended to answer

The WCB of Alberta distinguishes two core FCE types in its procedures:

Basic functional capacity evaluation (BFCE): described as a half-day assessment done early in the claim (often used with an MSE) to establish a baseline, determine need for work modifications, and identify whether rehabilitation treatment is required.

WCB’s service specification similarly states the BFCE’s purpose is a baseline evaluation of ability to perform injury-related critical job demands, “commonly used” early to determine need for further rehabilitation, and generally geared toward commenting on need for further treatment.

Comprehensive functional capacity evaluation (CFCE): described as a two-day assessment done later in the claim when the worker has reached a “medical plateau,” intended to determine sustainable abilities/working conditions and outline restrictions supporting return to work.

WCB’s service specification states the CFCE objective is to determine maximal functional capabilities and recommended accommodations once maximum medical improvement is reached, including two consecutive days to support consistency re-testing and to assess endurance/impact from day one.

WCB also defines a related upstream assessment:

Medical status examination (MSE): determines current medical condition including diagnosis and work restrictions and identifies other health concerns prior to additional consultations/assessments/treatment; WCB notes an MSE is usually completed prior to an FCE for medical screening.

If you are planning to offer functional testing services, this is a core assessment type you need to understand and apply correctly.

We cover this in our upcoming in-person Functional Capacity Evaluation workshop in Calgary.

Details and registration:
https://lnkd.in/eM5YG4bB