Answers to common questions about Functional Capacity Evaluations, Impairment Ratings, and the evaluation process.
A Functional Capacity Evaluation is a comprehensive, standardized assessment of an individual's ability to perform work-related physical tasks. It measures capacities like lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, sitting, standing, walking, and other functional activities. The evaluation includes built-in validity and consistency testing to ensure reliable results. FCEs are used in workers' compensation, personal injury, disability, and return-to-work cases.
A Functional Capacity Evaluation typically takes several hours to complete, depending on the individual's condition and the scope of the evaluation. The assessment includes a detailed interview, medical history review, and a series of standardized physical performance tests.
An Impairment Rating quantifies the degree of permanent impairment resulting from an injury or illness, expressed as a percentage of whole person impairment. Ratings are calculated using the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment — the standard referenced by Connecticut workers' compensation and widely used in personal injury cases. The process includes a review of medical records, a focused physical examination, and application of the appropriate rating methodology.
Evaluations can be requested by attorneys, physicians, employers, insurance carriers, case managers, and other authorized professionals. In some cases, individuals may self-refer. Contact me to discuss your specific situation.
Most evaluations can be scheduled within one to two weeks of the request. If you have an urgent timeline, contact me and I'll do my best to accommodate it.
Comprehensive evaluation reports are typically delivered within 5–7 business days of the evaluation. If you have a specific deadline, let me know when scheduling and I'll work to meet it.
Evaluations are performed at a dedicated evaluation space equipped with standardized testing equipment. For employer-related services such as ergonomic assessments and physical demand analyses, I can also perform evaluations at employer/client facilities.
Individuals should wear comfortable clothing and supportive, closed-toe shoes appropriate for physical activity. They should bring a photo ID, any relevant medical records or imaging they have, and a list of current medications. They should eat a normal meal before the evaluation and stay hydrated.
Yes. I operate a fully independent practice with no affiliation to any law firm, insurance company, employer, or treatment provider. Every evaluation follows standardized protocols with built-in validity and consistency measures. My conclusions are based entirely on clinical findings and established methodology — not on who requested the evaluation or what outcome they may prefer.
I serve the greater Hartford area, Middlesex County, the New Haven region, and surrounding communities throughout Connecticut. Contact me to confirm availability in your area.
Contact me by phone at (860) 415-3728 or use the online contact form. Please have the individual's name, the type of evaluation needed, and any relevant medical records or job descriptions available. I'll confirm scheduling and provide any additional instructions.
The FCE report includes a summary of the individual's medical history, detailed findings from all physical performance tests, validity and consistency analysis, comparison to job demands when applicable, and clear conclusions about functional capacity and work-level classification (sedentary, light, medium, heavy, or very heavy).
The evaluation is designed to be safe and is conducted within the individual's tolerance. I monitor closely throughout the process and never push anyone beyond safe limits. Some mild discomfort may occur with maximal effort testing, similar to what one might experience during physical activity, but the evaluation is stopped or modified if there is any concern about safety.