Neuropsychology Services
Statement Regarding Neuropsychological Assessment during Covid19 Restrictions
The research evidence base regarding the use of neuropsychological assessment tools is limited. The gold standard assessment tools (WAIS IV, WMS IV, DKEFS) and tools used for validity testing (effort / malingering tests) have not been standardised for video administration. There is some research that suggests that very basic verbal assessments which are commonly used for screening if cognitive issues are present but are not diagnostic tools (MMSE, verbal fluency, Boston naming test, digit span) can be used with accuracy, however, these tests alone are insufficient to diagnose any learning disorder, effect of a brain injury or the cause of cognitive dysfunction.
As such during this period of social isolation Dr Addy’s position as a Consultant Neuropsychologist is that video linked neuropsychological assessment is inappropriate and unreliable for court assessments. I will not therefore be offering any formal neuropsychological testing during this period. For referrals where neuropsychological assessment is required Dr Addy will be offering the following choices:
- Everything is put on hold and an appointment as soon as practical is offered.
- Dr Addy can review medical records, provide a video link interview regarding key issues currently present and complete a collateral interview via video link. A face-to-face appointment will then arranged for neuropsychological testing at a later date once practical. In this instance a preliminary report based on self-report, collateral report and medical evidence can be provided; with a final or addendum report provided once the testing has been completed. The advantage of this second option is that it may assist you as a referrer to identify the key clinical issues, start planning for further assessments and treatment that maybe need and it will provide a clear and clinically valid justification to apply for extensions to the court timetables if required.
If you do have neuropsychological assessments already arranged with Dr Addy please advise which option you would prefer and we will make all the necessary arrangements. If you are considering referring to Dr Addy for a Neuropsychological Assessment please feel free to proceed with the referral, advising if you want us to hold and arrange the full assessment when able to do so or if you would like Dr Addy to provide a provisional report as detailed in point 2 above.
If we can provide any further assistance during this difficult period please contact us.
The team at North Wales Neuropsychology Services provide professional and friendly neuropsychology and related services to clients in North Wales and the North West of England. With the team head office at High Street Bangor in Gwynedd and clinic rooms in Llandudno, Chester, Liverpool and Manchester. Clinical Director Dr Karen Addy has been in both NHS and Private practice since qualifying as a Clinical Psychologist in 2005 and a Clinical Neuropsychologist in 2012.
Dr Addy launched North Wales Neuropsychology Services in 2015 to provide high quality timely neuropsychological and psychological interventions, staff team support and training to clients and families following Neurological impairments.
The service provides a wide range of services and the team would be happy to assist with any queries please contact us.
Dr Karen Addy
CV: click here (pdf) |
Neuropsychological and Cognitive Rehabilitation.
