Telehealth Functional Abilities Assessment (TFAA)
A remote assessment of how a disability, illness or health condition affects someone's ability to carry out daily tasks and work activities, used where a face-to-face assessment is not possible.
What it is
The Telehealth Functional Abilities Assessment (TFAA) is a functional assessment conducted remotely. It evaluates an individual's capacity to carry out daily tasks and work-related activities where a disability, illness or other health condition is getting in the way.
It exists for cases where a face-to-face assessment is not possible, usually because of geographic restrictions. The assessment can cover mobility, dexterity, cognitive function and emotional wellbeing, and establishes what support or adjustments the individual needs to manage daily activities or work tasks effectively.
Form Health has delivered occupational assessments since 1999. Our multi-disciplinary team includes occupational therapists, nurses, physiotherapists and osteopaths, with a network of specialists that includes occupational psychologists.
Who it is for
The TFAA is for insurers, insurance brokers, occupational health providers and employers who need objective functional evidence but cannot arrange a face-to-face assessment, most often because of where the individual is located.
It suits any case where a disability, illness or health condition is affecting someone's ability to manage daily activities or work tasks, and the referrer needs a clear picture of that impact before deciding on support, adjustments or rehabilitation.
What is involved
The assessment takes place by video call, and the individual needs a PC, laptop or tablet. The assessor evaluates how the individual's condition affects their functional abilities, covering areas such as mobility, dexterity, cognitive function and emotional wellbeing, depending on what the referral requires.
Pain levels are monitored during the assessment so that activities remain safe for the individual throughout.
What the referrer receives
You receive an accurate report, written for an employer or insurer, setting out how the individual's condition affects their functional abilities. It includes tailored recommendations for the support or adjustments needed for them to carry out daily activities or work tasks effectively.
The findings can also feed into a personalised rehabilitation plan, so the assessment supports the individual's recovery as well as your decision-making.
Questions referrers ask
What does a TFAA cover?
The assessment can cover mobility, dexterity, cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. The exact scope depends on the referral: the aim is to establish how the individual's condition affects their daily activities and work tasks, and what support or adjustments they need.
When is a TFAA used instead of a face-to-face assessment?
A TFAA is used where a face-to-face assessment is not possible, most commonly because of geographic restrictions. It allows the functional assessment to go ahead remotely rather than being delayed or missed altogether.
Is a remote assessment safe for the individual?
Pain levels are monitored during the assessment to make sure activities remain safe. The purpose is to understand the individual's functional abilities, not to push them beyond what their condition allows.
What happens after you refer
Steps
- 1
Refer
- 2
Logged
- 3
Individual contacted
- 4
Assessment
- 5
Report to your inbox
- 1
Refer
- 2
Logged
- 3
Individual contacted
- 4
Assessment
- 5
Report to your inbox
Assessment client? See how vocational rehabilitation completes the claim.
An objective evaluation tells you where things stand. Our rehabilitation and case management take it from there, through to a sustained return to work.
Explore return to work servicesTalk to the team
Whether it is one referral or a programme of work, start with a conversation.