The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) has provided new challenges for human resource administrators when determining the ability of an employee to return to the workplace in their current or a different position. To maintain workplace productivity, supervisors needs may require assessments of employees taking family leave. By ordering appropriate medical assessments, management can confirm that a leave meets proper medical criteria on an evidence-basis, as well as determine appropriate length of leave and consider alternative return-to-work options.

Independent Medical Evaluations

Medical assessments are MCN's core competency. They provide answers to questions about the medical nature, cause and treatment of injuries. MCN offers these services nationwide for insurance claims professionals, self-insured groups, regional and national government agencies and attorneys. The physician reviews all appropriate medical records, takes a detailed history, documents patient complaints and answers the requestor’s questions based on objective medical evidence.

Return-to-Work Determinations

MCN performs these evaluations for claimants that are extending their absence under the FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act). In many cases the employee has been off work longer than expected with the diagnosis or condition, or the expected return to work date has been extended. An evaluation by an independent provider is performed to determine whether the return to work date is accurate. These exams can also help facilitate an earlier return to work with modified work requirements.

Peer Reviews

Claims often raise questions regarding the delivery, appropriateness or necessity of medical services. When a face-to-face evaluation is not required or possible, consider MCN’s Peer Review services. MCN will compile complete medical histories, have a qualified physician consult and review all medial records and provide a comprehensive report. Depending on client protocols, MCN may ask that the physician contact the treating provider for further clarification in the case.

Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)

FCE’s are an invaluable tool in providing an objective and complete assessment of an employee’s current level of physical functioning. They can also be tailored to assess a specific diagnosis, physical impairment, or ability to perform the essential functions of a specific job. The results provide valuable additional objective evidence when used in conjunction with an Independent Medical Evaluation.