Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA)

In-person or Telehealth

Lotus Therapy provide person centred and comprehensive NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments to ensure clients have the right level of support and NDIS funding to achieve their goals and needs. A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a comprehensive Occupational Therapy evaluation designed to assess our client’s ability to engage in meaningful daily activities and live as independently as possible.

Our assessments identify the supports needed to achieve goals and promote independence, which may include personal care supports, assistive technologies, or capacity building therapies. We provide recommendations based on our clients’ unique abilities and needs.

Why are FCAs Important?

• Establish a clear understanding of our client’s current level of functioning.

• Provide tailored recommendations for ongoing supports and therapy.

• Inform plan reviews and justify support or funding where necessary.

Our FCA Process

01. Initial Interview
A comprehensive conversation (phone or face to face) to gather background information and understand our clients’ goals and unique experiences.

02. Observation Assessment
A functional assessment conducted in the clinic or community to observe how challenges impact daily engagement.

03. Standardised Assessment
Age and disability-specific tools are carefully selected to ensure a well-rounded evaluation. These standardised assessment tools can be completed within a session or emailed out.

04. Collaborative Goal Setting
We work closely with clients and families to set meaningful, achievable goals that foster growth and independence.

05. Report Writing
A detailed and compassionate report display findings and recommendations, providing clear guidance for ongoing support.

06. Ongoing support and therapy
We offer ongoing therapeutic support with a variety of allied health services, empowering individuals and their families to thrive.

Allow 8 to 10 weeks to complete an FCA from initial appointment to report completion.

Telehealth Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA)

Lotus Therapy also offers Telehealth Functional Capacity Assessments, providing flexible and accessible options for individuals and families who may not be able to attend in person.

Telehealth FCAs are conducted via secure video conferencing and follow the same person-centred, comprehensive approach as our face-to-face assessments. This option is particularly beneficial for clients in rural or remote areas, those with mobility challenges, or families seeking greater convenience.

What to expect with Telehealth FCAs:

• A detailed initial interview conducted online with the client and/or their support network

• Functional observations adapted to the home environment through guided activities and discussion

• Completion of standardised assessments via online sessions or secure electronic forms

• Collaborative goal setting tailored to the client’s daily life and environment

• A comprehensive report with clear, evidence-based recommendations

We work closely with clients, families, and support teams to ensure the assessment remains thorough, meaningful, and reflective of real-world functioning, even in a virtual setting.

Telehealth FCAs are completed within the timeframe of approximately 6 weeks from initial appointment to final report.