What Is A Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A functional capacity evaluation, or FCE, is a collection of tests utilized by insurers to test a claimant's maximal physical effort. FCE is not generally contractually required and is not necessarily a "medical examination" as provided for by the policy. A FCE is a collection of tests utilized by insurers to test a claimant's maximal physical effort. The information from the FCE is then used by the insurance company to make inferences with respect to whether or not an individual can work full time on a sustained basis. There may be legitimate grounds upon which to refuse to attend an FCE, and claimants should be vigilant about asserting rights to refuse such testing.