WORK & RECOVERY
Work-Ready Programs
A practical conversation about function, job demands, and the next step.
Your work has specific demands
Lifting, reaching, standing, and repetitive tasks can place different demands on your body. Work-ready services focus on understanding those demands alongside your current abilities. Bring a job description or details about your usual duties so the team can discuss the appropriate evaluation or program.
Work conditioning and work hardening
The practice’s existing service information lists work conditioning and work hardening. These programs connect rehabilitation activities with work-related tasks. Call to confirm the current program, referral requirements, location, and any authorization needed for your case.
Functional capacity evaluation
A functional capacity evaluation, often called an FCE, assesses physical abilities in relation to work demands. It is an assessment rather than a promise of a particular return-to-work date. Ask the office which documentation is required and how results are shared with the appropriate parties.
Coordinate before you arrive
Work-injury cases may involve a treating clinician, employer, insurer, or case manager. Confirm the appointment type and required authorization before scheduling. The clinical team determines medical recommendations; claim and employment decisions involve the relevant parties.
Prepare for your conversation
- Job description or a summary of physical duties
- Treating-provider referral when required
- Claim and authorization information when applicable
- Relevant records and current activity restrictions
Contact the office to confirm availability, location, and scheduling requirements.
Related concerns.
These links offer information to discuss with your provider.
Work-Related Injuries
Evaluation and care conversations connected to your job demands.
Knee Pain & Injuries
Discuss symptoms that make walking, stairs, or activity harder.
Questions about work-ready programs.
Is an FCE the same as treatment?
An FCE is an assessment of function. Work conditioning and work hardening are rehabilitation programs. Call to discuss which service has been requested.
Can I schedule directly?
Call first. Referral, documentation, and authorization requirements vary by service and case.
Will the program guarantee that I can return to my job?
No. Recommendations depend on evaluation findings, your progress, job demands, and the decisions of the appropriate treating and administrative parties.