A functional capacity assessment can be completed by a suitably qualified professional whose skills match the assessment purpose. The NDIS identifies occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists and medical specialists as professionals who may conduct an FCA. That does not mean each professional assesses every aspect of function in the same way.
For someone seeking evidence about everyday activities, an occupational therapist may be an appropriate choice. The useful question is whether the assessor can investigate the relevant difficulties and explain the support needs clearly, within their professional scope.
Start with the question the report must answer
People request FCAs for different reasons. You may need evidence about daily assistance, a recent change in circumstances or an upcoming planning discussion. Another person may need an assessment linked to equipment or a living arrangement.
Before choosing a provider, describe the decision the report will inform. Ask whether a general FCA covers that purpose or whether a more specific assessment is needed. This helps prevent a participant from paying for a report that does not answer the main question.
What an OT contributes
Occupational therapy considers the relationship between the person, the activity and the environment. An OT might explore why someone cannot complete a meal routine, which parts of personal care require support or how the home layout affects access.
The report should connect those findings with recommendations. It is not enough to state that someone has difficulty with an activity. Useful evidence explains the nature of the difficulty, what assistance is currently provided and the reasoning behind a proposed support.
An OT may also identify questions that need another professional's input. Collaboration can be valuable when a participant has communication, mobility, medical or other needs that fall across different areas of practice.
Checking the assessor's suitability
Ask about the professional's qualifications and registration, the service they offer and the approach to your report purpose. A provider should explain what the assessment includes and what information they will need.
Questions you can ask include:
- Have you discussed the particular functional questions in my referral?
- What activities and environments will you assess?
- What information from other professionals would be helpful?
- What is included in the written report and estimate?
- When is the report expected and how will findings be explained?
An assessor's willingness to discuss scope is useful. A promise to secure a certain funding outcome should not replace a clear description of the assessment work.
Is an FCA always required for the NDIS?
No. The NDIS states that an FCA is not required in every application. Relevant evidence may come from different sources depending on the circumstances. Ask your NDIS contact what information is needed for the specific decision before arranging an unnecessary assessment.
An FCA may still be useful when existing information does not adequately describe daily function. It can organise observations, participant experiences and support needs into a structured report. The assessor should explain why that work is relevant to your circumstances.
Participant choice and consent
You should know the purpose of the assessment and who will receive the report. Discuss whether family members, carers or other providers will be contacted, and what consent is needed.
Tell the assessor about communication preferences and any adjustments that would make the appointment easier to participate in. The report should accurately describe your circumstances rather than only reflecting what someone else says about you.
If a statement is factually incorrect, ask how corrections can be raised. That is different from asking a clinician to change their professional findings or guarantee a particular recommendation.
Common questions
Can any OT provide every type of FCA report?
Professional registration is only part of suitability. The OT must work within their scope and determine whether the requested assessment matches their skills and experience.
Can several professionals contribute?
Yes, relevant evidence from different professionals may help. Discuss who will coordinate the report and avoid paying for overlapping work without understanding its purpose.
Can my support coordinator choose the assessor?
A coordinator can help identify options and organise referrals. The participant's preferences, consent and the suitability of the service should guide the decision.
For an Ergo OT assessment, submit a referral describing the functional questions, location and report deadline. We can discuss whether our FCA service is appropriate.