Functional Capacity Assessments
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a comprehensive evaluation that helps determine a child's abilities, challenges, and support needs in relation to their daily activities. It is often required for NDIS funding applications, plan reviews, or plan reassessments to ensure the child receives the right level of support to achieve their goals.
The primary goal of an FCA is to:
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Provide a detailed picture of the child’s strengths and challenges.
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Identify areas where the child requires additional support or intervention.
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Assist in NDIS funding decisions by demonstrating the impact of the child’s disability on their daily life.
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Guide the development of an individualized therapy plan to help the child maximize their independence and participation in activities.
What Does a Functional Capacity Assessment Evaluate?
An FCA assesses multiple areas of a child's development and daily function, including:
1. Self-Care and Daily Living Skills
Dressing, feeding, toileting, and hygiene routines.
Independence in daily tasks at home and school.
2. Gross and Fine Motor Skills
Coordination, balance, and strength for activities like running, climbing, and playing.
Hand function for tasks such as writing, using utensils, or manipulating objects.
3. Sensory Processing
The child’s ability to respond appropriately to sensory input (e.g., sensitivity to noise, textures, or movement).
Impact of sensory processing challenges on learning, social interaction, and emotional regulation.
4. Social and Emotional Regulation
Ability to communicate, interact, and form relationships with peers and adults.
Emotional self-regulation, impulse control, and frustration tolerance.
5. Attention and Executive Functioning
Ability to focus, follow instructions, and complete tasks.
Problem-solving, organization, and time management skills.
6. Communication and Play Skills
Engagement in play, creativity, and interaction with peers.
Speech and language development (if applicable).
How Does a Functional Capacity Assessment Support NDIS Funding?
NDIS funding is flexible and individualized, allowing children and their families to access services that best suit their unique needs. This may include:
1. Occupational Therapy (OT) Services
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Pediatric occupational therapists help children develop skills for daily life, including:
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Gross motor and fine motor skills for play, self-care, and school participation.
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Sensory processing support for children with heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input.
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Emotional regulation strategies to manage frustration, anxiety, or behavioral challenges.
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Executive functioning skills such as attention, impulse control, and organization.
2. Speech Therapy
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NDIS may fund speech pathology services to support children with:
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Communication challenges, including delayed speech or difficulty understanding language.
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Social skills development, especially for children with autism.
3. Physiotherapy
4. Psychology and Behavioral Support
5. Assistive Technology and Equipment
How Families Can Access NDIS Support
An FCA provides objective evidence to support a child's NDIS application or plan review. The assessment report:
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Clearly outlines the child’s level of functional impairment in different areas of life.
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Demonstrates the need for specific supports, such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, assistive technology, or personal care assistance.
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Helps determine the appropriate level of funding required for therapy, equipment, or modifications to support independence and participation.
The NDIS uses the FCA report to ensure the child’s plan includes the necessary resources to help them thrive at home, school, and in the community.
Who Completes a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A qualified pediatric occupational therapist conducts the FCA based on the child's needs. At iThrive Health, our experienced occupational therapists specialize in:
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Conducting thorough and evidence-based assessments tailored to each child.
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Writing detailed reports aligned with NDIS requirements to maximize funding support.
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Advocating for families during the NDIS planning and review process.
Why Choose iThrive Health for a Functional Capacity Assessment?
At iThrive Health, we understand the importance of a well-documented FCA in ensuring your child receives the best possible NDIS support. Our team:
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Provides comprehensive and compassionate assessments tailored to each child's unique needs.
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Works closely with families to ensure the assessment captures the full impact of the child’s condition on daily life.
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Advocates for the right level of NDIS funding to support your child's long-term development and well-being.
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Offers a fully equipped therapy clinic, ensuring accurate and functional real-world observations of the child’s abilities.
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Understands the importance of NDIS deadlines and planning meeting dates. We will do everything we can to meet your NDIS planning schedule.
Next Steps
If your child is applying for NDIS funding or needs a plan review, a Functional Capacity Assessment can provide crucial evidence to secure the right level of support.
Contact iThrive Health today to book an FCA and take the next step in your child’s journey toward greater independence and success!
