How does the department evaluate functional capacity for mental health impairments?
If you have a mental impairment, we evaluate ability to function in a work setting based on an objective clinical assessment from a medical professional as described in WAC
388-449-0010. We may also use other evidence as described in WAC
388-449-0010. Functioning means your ability to perform typical tasks that would be required in a routine job setting and your ability to interact effectively while working.
(1) We evaluate cognitive and social functioning by assessing your ability to:
(a) Understand, remember, and persist in tasks by following very short and simple instructions.
(b) Understand, remember, and persist in tasks by following detailed instructions.
(c) Perform activities within a schedule, maintain regular attendance, and be punctual within customary tolerances without special supervision.
(d) Learn new tasks.
(e) Perform routine tasks without special supervision.
(f) Adapt to changes in a routine work setting.
(g) Make simple work-related decisions.
(h) Be aware of normal hazards and take appropriate precautions.
(i) Ask simple questions or request assistance.
(j) Communicate and perform effectively in a work setting with public contact.
(k) Communicate and perform effectively in a work setting with limited public contact.
(l) Complete a normal workday and workweek without interruptions from psychologically based symptoms.
(m) Set realistic goals and plan independently.
(n) Maintain appropriate behavior in a work setting.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
74.04.005,
74.04.050,
74.04.055,
74.04.057,
74.04.510,
74.08.090,
74.08A.100,
74.04.770,
74.04.0052,
74.04.655,
74.08.043,
74.08.335, and 2011 1st sp.s. c 36. WSR 12-10-042, ยง 388-449-0020, filed 4/27/12, effective 6/1/12.]