Fitness‐for‐Duty Evaluations

Abstract

Fitness‐for‐duty evaluations (FFDEs) involve the application of comprehensive psychological assessment skills to address employer questions about a worker's ability to perform essential job duties safely and effectively. Such evaluations should never be undertaken lightly, as they are of importance for both employers and employees. For employers, FFDEs are often intended to help fulfill their obligation to provide a safe working environment. For employees, FFDEs concern issues related to their livelihood, self‐esteem, and privacy. In addition to employers, organizations with service oversight responsibility, such as professional licensing boards or hospitals, may also request FFDEs.