Affiliations: Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Carole James, School of Health
Sciences, Hunter Building, University of Newcastle, University Drive,
Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia. Tel.: +61 249 216632; Fax: +61 249 216984;
E-mail: Carole.James@newcastle.edu.au
Abstract: Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE's) are used within the
occupational rehabilitation arena with the aim of assessing an individual's
functional abilities in relation to work tasks. Therapists use a variety of
different FCE's, both standardized and non standardized. This study aimed to
investigate therapists' views on the clinical utility of FCE's in general and
to identify if these differed between professional groups. A cross sectional
study design was used. Health professionals who conduct FCE's and who worked
for WorkCover accredited rehabilitation providers in NSW were surveyed. Surveys
were returned from 79 participants working for 65 different rehabilitation
providers. Of those who replied, 82\% (n=63) were occupational therapists,
13% (n=10) physiotherapists and 5% (n=5) exercise physiologists. The
mean years of professional experience was 10.9 years and the mean years of FCE
experience was 5.3 years. Data were analyzed using STATA [v8.0] and the
clinical utility of FCE's was considered relating to: usefulness &
relevance; adaptability and flexibility; therapist perceived requirements and
issues in practice. No differences were found related to the clinical utility
of FCE's between professional groups or years of professional experience. The
results suggest consistency and similarities in how FCE's are currently used in
practice across NSW (Australia). Limitations of this study and areas for
further research are suggested.
