Functional Capacity Assessments
Building Blocks OT 4 Kids offers Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) for children 2-14 years of age who are autistic, have a developmental delay, intellectual disability or certain genetic conditions or syndromes. Please be aware that we are not able to conduct an assessment for your child or client if they require physical supports as our staff are not trained in assistive equipment and/or home modifications.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
“Functional capacity refers to an individual’s ability to be involved in life situations and to execute tasks or actions, with and without assistance (assistive devices and/or personal assistance). Information regarding impairment(s) and environmental factors, and how they impact the individual’s function is included when assessing functional capacity.”
National Disability Insurance Agency’s Independent Assessment Framework Report, August 2020, p. 32.
When is an FCA required?
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When it is a stated support in your child’s NDIS plan.
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When an independent assessment has been requested to determine your child’s eligibility and support needs.
When is an FCA recommended?
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When your child’s needs and family circumstances are complex.
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When your child is experiencing a significant developmental transition, for example entering high school.
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When your child has nil or limited therapeutic supports and you do not have evidence of their needs or unsure of their level of functioning.
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When there has been change in your child’s functional level.
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When you and your child’s team think that their plan is underfunded and are requesting a review. Please be aware that conducting an FCA is a time consuming and costly exercise, and the cost of the FCA will be deducted from existing funding.
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When your child is transitioning from Wanslea to APM or Mission Australia, and they are no longer under early childhood supports.
What forms part of our FCAs?
Clinical Observations - 2 hrs
Depending on the age of your child and family circumstances this may occur at home, in the community, at school, or at more than one location. Additional hours may be necessary depending on travel and additional observations.
Caregiver Interview - 2 hrs
At Building Blocks OT 4 Kids our interview includes the use of the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales 3rd Edition and the Comprehensive Interview Form, a norm-based instrument that provides us with both qualitative and quantitative information about your child’s level of functioning across all developmental domains.
You will be asked about your goals for your child, their interests, informal supports, and family situation so we can form a holistic view of child in context. A parent stress scale will be given to you to complete to determine level of carer stress being experienced.
Liaison - 1 - 2 hours
Liaison with other key people in your child’s life, which may include day care or school staff, therapists, or grandparents.
Review of reports – diagnostic, therapy, positive behaviour support plans, school reports.
Clarification of information, observations and assessment findings with primary caregiver.
Reporting - 6 - 7 hours
Comprehensive and detailed report that includes background information, assessment findings, NDIS goals, and support recommendations. When providing recommendations, we refer to your child’s functional level, environmental and family factors and reference the NDIS Act stating why the support is considered reasonable and necessary.
When will I receive the report?
You will receive the report within 4-6 weeks of the date of final information gathering stage.
Questions?
Feel free to contact us via email at reception@bbot4kids.com if you have any questions.