This section answers your questions about our therapy practices and services. Here, you’ll find detailed information that reflects our commitment to transparency and care. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your health and rehabilitation options.
What is a medico-legal assessment / report?
A medico-legal assessment is an independent expert evaluation performed by an occupational therapist to objectively assess how an injury, illness or disability affects a person’s functional abilities, daily living, work capacity and care needs. The resulting report is used in legal, insurance or compensation settings.
How does a medico-legal OT differ from a clinical OT?
A clinical OT focuses on direct therapy, rehabilitation and improving function. A medico-legal OT provides objective, neutral assessments and expert opinions for legal or compensation matters, rather than therapeutic intervention. MLEA+1
What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)?
An FCE is a comprehensive assessment to measure a person’s physical and functional abilities (e.g. lifting, carrying, walking, endurance) relative to work demands and daily tasks. The results help guide return-to-work decisions, accommodations, disability determinations and rehabilitation planning. Memphis Physical Therapy+3Enlyte+3Johns Hopkins Medicine+3
When should an FCE be done?
Some common timings include:
How long does an assessment or FCE take?
The duration depends on case complexity, injury scope, environment, and tasks required.
FCEs often take 2–6 hours (sometimes spread over more than one session) depending on the number of tests and fatigue considerations. webFCE+2Johns Hopkins Medicine+2
How should I prepare for the assessment or FCE?
Will I be allowed breaks during the evaluation?
Yes — breaks (for rest, meals, bathroom) are standard and built into the schedule. If you need extra pauses due to fatigue or other symptoms, you should communicate this to the assessor. Johns Hopkins Medicine+1
What happens after the assessment?
After the assessment, the OT compiles findings into a detailed report. The report typically includes: history, test results, observations, limitations, recommendations (e.g. accommodations, assistive devices, care, rehabilitation) and prognosis. The report is then submitted to the referring party (lawyer, insurer, employer). Independent OT Medico Legal+2Enlyte+2
How long before I receive the report?
That depends on the complexity of the case, the number of pages, and the need for consultations. Some practices offer turnaround times of 1–3 weeks (or faster if urgent). You can negotiate with us if there is a tight deadline.
Who pays for the assessment or FCE?
The party requesting the assessment usually covers the cost: e.g. insurer, legal firm, employer, or sometimes the client (especially in less formal or privately initiated cases).
What types of injuries or conditions do you assess?
We assess a wide range, including but not limited to: orthopaedic injuries, neurological conditions, chronic pain, spinal injury, amputations, acquired brain injury, medical negligence side effects, and multi-system trauma.
Do you conduct on-site / home / workplace assessments?
Yes. We travel to client homes, workplaces, rural or informal environments when needed to accurately assess functional context and to remove transportation barriers.
Can I refuse an FCE or assessment?
You may technically refuse, but doing so can have legal or contractual consequences in compensation, insurance or dispute contexts. It might affect credibility or delay a case. It’s best to discuss with your legal representative before refusing.
Is my personal health / functional data kept private?
Absolutely. All client information is handled confidentially. Reports are shared only with authorized parties (e.g. your legal team, insurer) with your consent. We adhere to professional and legal privacy obligations.
Can your OT testify in court or at arbitration?
Yes. As part of our medico-legal service, we can be called as expert witnesses, provide cross-examination, and attend hearings to defend our opinions.
Can I request an urgent assessment?
Yes. In many cases we accommodate urgent requests when possible. Please contact us directly and we’ll advise on feasibility and any additional costs.
What factors influence cost / pricing?
Some of the influencing factors: complexity of the case, travel distance / location, required tests, duration, number of consultations, report length, and urgency.
How far do you travel / what geographical area do you serve?
We serve clients across South Africa, including in urban, rural and informal areas. We travel for on-site assessments when necessary.
Can you assist with rehabilitation, service coordination or case management afterward?
Yes — beyond just assessment, we offer case management, rehabilitation planning, coordination of therapies, assistive device procurement, home modifications, and long-term support.
What are your credentials / how is your expertise verified?
Our team comprises registered occupational therapists with extensive experience in medico-legal, functional evaluation and case management. Our reports are prepared in accordance with accepted professional, clinical and legal standards.