Can an NDIS Functional Capacity Assessment be completed online?

A Functional Capacity Assessment is usually conducted by healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, or rehabilitation specialists.

They may use standardised tests, observation, interviews, and sometimes assistive technology to gather data on the individual's capabilities and limitations.

So can a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) be performed online?

Yes, it's possible for many components of a Functional Capacity Assessment to be completed online, especially in situations where in-person assessment may not be feasible or accessible.

The extent to which an FCA can be conducted online depends on various factors, including the technologies available, and the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

There are many ways information can be collected online, including:

• Surveys
• Interviews
• Observations via zoom, videos, photos
• Videos on your phone of every activities
• Conversations with families, supporters and carers 
• Photos of your home, work or school environment 
• Inhome visits with the help of a local practioner or family member

Is an online Functional Capacity Assessment suitable for all disabilities?

Most disabilities, and their associated functional impairments, can be assessed online. For example:

• Cognitive impairment (Stroke, Acquired Brain Injury, Learning Disability, and more)
• Physical disability (Spinal cord injuries, Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy and more)
• Psychosocial disability (Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder and more)
• Mental health (Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, and more)
• Neurological disorders (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis) and neurodiverse individuals (e.g. Autism Spectrum Disorder)

What kind of report will you get with an online Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)?

The FCA report will be the same as when a face-to-face assessment is performed.

Here are some key components that may be included in an FCA report for the NDIS:

Background Information:
The report may start with background information about the individual, including their personal details, medical history, diagnoses, and any relevant information about their disability or condition.
 
Assessment Findings:
The report will detail the findings from the assessment process. This may include observations, standardized assessment results, and information gathered through interviews or discussions with the individual and their caregivers or support network.
 
Functional Capacity:
The report will outline the individual's current level of functional capacity across various domains, such as activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), mobility, communication, cognitive abilities, social interaction, and behavior management.
 
Support Needs:
Based on the assessment findings, the report will identify the individual's specific support needs. This may include the type and level of assistance required to perform daily tasks, manage personal care, participate in community activities, and achieve their goals and aspirations.
 
Goals and Aspirations:
The report may include information about the individual's goals, aspirations, and desired outcomes. This could involve short-term and long-term goals related to independence, skill development, social participation, employment, education, or other areas of life.
 
Recommendations:
The FCA report will typically provide recommendations for supports and interventions to address the individual's needs and goals. These recommendations may include assistive technology, therapy services, specialized equipment, home modifications, access to community programs or services, and other forms of support.
 
Evidence-Based Justification:
The report will include evidence-based justification for the recommended supports and interventions, explaining how they align with the individual's assessed needs, goals, and best interests.
 
Plan Implementation:
The report may outline a proposed plan for implementing the recommended supports and interventions, including timelines, responsibilities, and steps for monitoring progress and adjusting the plan as needed.