Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE): Employer's Quick Guide
Everything employers need to know about FCE — who needs it, what's included, and how to find a provider through BlueHive.
At a glance
- Turnaround
- 5-7 business days
- Typical cost
- $800–$2500
- CPT code
- 97750
What Is FCE?
Disputed disability claims and return-to-work stalemates cost employers thousands per week. A BlueHive FCE provides objective, standardized data on what an employee can actually do — giving you defensible evidence for accommodation decisions, claims management, and safe return-to-work plans.
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive assessment of an individual's physical abilities and limitations in relation to work demands. FCEs are used to determine safe work capacity, establish restrictions, evaluate disability claims, and guide return-to-work decisions.
Who Needs This Service?
- Workers compensation claims
- Disability determinations
- Return-to-work cases
- Fitness for duty questions
- Job placement decisions
What's Included
A typical FCE appointment includes:
- Standardized testing protocols
- Comprehensive physical assessment
- Job-demand comparison
- Objective functional data
- Detailed written report
Turnaround time: 5-7 business days
Typical cost: $800–$2500
How It Works
- Order — FCE ordered with job description if applicable.
- Evaluation — 4-6 hour evaluation of functional abilities.
- Analysis — Results analyzed against job demands.
Related Services
Ready to get started? Find a provider for FCE or learn more about this service.
How FCE works, step by step
- 1
Order
FCE ordered with job description if applicable.
- 2
Evaluation
4-6 hour evaluation of functional abilities.
- 3
Analysis
Results analyzed against job demands.
- 4
Report
Comprehensive report with recommendations.
Regulatory snapshot
ADA for accommodation determinations; state workers' compensation statutes for disability and return-to-work evaluations
Track state-by-state changes in Compliance WatchFrequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
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Content Developer
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Chris Davis is a content developer at BlueHive Health with a background in healthcare operations, medical billing, and small-business management. He writes plain-English guides on OSHA, DOT, and PHMSA compliance for HR and safety leaders.
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