Fitness for Duty Assessments
Clear, independent evaluations of a worker’s ability to perform their role safely
When there are questions about an employee’s ability to return to work after injury or illness, LexiMed can arrange a Fitness for Duty assessment with an experienced medicolegal specialist. The assessment focuses on whether the employee is physically and/or psychologically fit to perform the inherent requirements of their role safely.
Our medicolegal specialists provide independent opinions that assist employers, insurers and legal professionals in making informed decisions around return to work, role suitability and workplace risk.
Understanding fitness for duty
A Fitness for Duty assessment is a detailed medical evaluation of an employee’s ability to safely carry out the requirements of their role. The assessment considers all relevant aspects of health that may affect work capacity and is tailored to the specific demands of the position.
These assessments are commonly requested following non-work-related injuries or medical conditions, but may also be appropriate where physical, psychological or behavioural concerns have been identified.
In practice, Fitness for Duty assessments are a key tool for managing employer duty of care, particularly in environments where safety risks are present.
When fitness for duty assessments may be required?
Fitness for Duty assessments are often requested in situations such as:
- Following a non-work-related injury or illness
- Where a general medical condition may affect work capacity
- When psychological or cognitive concerns have been identified
- Where safety concerns exist in relation to the role
- When clarity is needed around current capacity and appropriate restrictions
In many cases, the assessment helps bring structure and medical evidence to decisions that would otherwise rely on incomplete information.
What the assessment covers?
Each Fitness for Duty assessment is tailored to the role and circumstances, but typically involves:
- Review of relevant medical records and background information
- Consideration of the inherent requirements of the role
- Clinical assessment by an appropriate medical practitioner
- Evaluation of physical capacity, psychological functioning or both
- Assessment of whether duties can be performed safely, with or without restrictions
- Preparation of a structured medicolegal report outlining current capacity and recommendations
Accredited specialists experienced in fitness for duty assessments
Fitness for Duty assessments are only as reliable as the expertise behind them. Depending on the role and the issues being considered, assessments may be conducted by a general practitioner, occupational physician, psychologist or psychiatrist.
At LexiMed, each assessment is matched to the practitioner best suited to the role and issues involved. Each matter is reviewed before booking to make sure the assessment is handled by a clinician with experience relevant to the role, the work environment and the type of risk being assessed. Our specialists understand how Fitness for Duty opinions are applied in workplace, insurance and legal settings, and how those opinions may be questioned.
This approach helps ensure the final opinion is practical, role-specific and able to stand up to review.
What to expect when you partner with LexiMed
Medical opinion grounded in the realities of the role
Assessments consider how health concerns interact with the real demands and risks of the position, rather than abstract measures of ability.
Independent assessment with safety front of mind
Opinions are formed objectively, with close attention to workplace safety for the individual and those around them.
Reporting that supports clear decisions
Reports are presented in a clear structure so decision-makers can easily understand current capacity, any restrictions, and recommended next steps.
Professional, measured assessments for employees
Assessments are conducted respectfully and without unnecessary pressure, supporting reliable information and more balanced outcomes.
Over 18 years of industry experience
We have seen how fitness for duty guidelines and workplace safety have changed over the years, and we know what to look for when assessing capability. With us, you can rest assured you are in good hands.
Fast turnaround times
Our process is designed to limit delays between assessment and report delivery, supporting timely and well-informed decisions.
Our process
STEP 1
Make an appointment
Contact LexiMed to outline the role, duties and reason for assessment. We review the matter and determine the most appropriate assessment approach.
STEP 2
Examination and assessment
The employee attends the Fitness for Duty assessment with the nominated practitioner, with role requirements and risk factors considered throughout.
STEP 3
Reporting
A structured medicolegal report is prepared, outlining current fitness for duty, any restrictions and relevant recommendations.
Based in Brisbane, operating nationwide
Our network of medicolegal specialists and medical suites extends across Australia, making it possible to arrange assessments wherever they are needed.
Get clear medical guidance on an employee’s fitness for duty
If questions around work capacity or safety remain unresolved, our team can help determine the appropriate assessment and next steps.