The utility of functional capacity evaluation: the opinion of physicians and other experts in the field of return to work and disability claims.
OBJECTIVE
This qualitative study explored how Dutch experts perceive the utility of functional capacity evaluation (FCE) for return to work (RTW) and disability claim (DC) assessment purposes.


METHODS
Twenty-one RTW case managers and 29 DC experts were interviewed by telephone using a semi-structured interview schedule.


RESULTS
The RTW case managers valued the utility of FCE on a scale of 0-10. Their mean valuation was 6.5 (SD 1.5). The average valuation for DC experts was 4.8 (SD 2.2). Arguments in favor of FCE were (1) its ability to confirm own opinions and (2) the objectivity of its measurement method. Arguments against FCE were (1) the redundancy of the information it provides and (2) the lack of objectivity. Indications for FCE were musculoskeletal disorders, a positive patient self-perception of ability to work, and the presence of an actual job. Contraindications for FCE were medically unexplained disorders, a negative patient self-perception of ability to work, and the existence of disputes and legal procedures.


CONCLUSIONS
The responding RTW case managers perceived FCE to be more useful than the responding DC experts. The question of whether the arguments presented for and against the utility of FCE are valid is one that should be addressed in a future study.
Wind
Haije
H
Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, AmCOGG: Amsterdam Center for Research into Health and Health Care, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands. h.wind@amc.uva.nl
Gouttebarge
Vincent
V
Kuijer
P Paul F M
PP
Sluiter
Judith K
JK
Frings-Dresen
Monique H W
MH
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003625:Data Collection; D006801:Humans; D009426:Netherlands; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation; D016272:Occupational Health; D010820:Physicians; D018582:Sick Leave; D014938:Work Capacity Evaluation; D014942:Workers' Compensation