What do private practice referrers value about neuropsychology assessment?

Abstract

Objective: For optimal clinical utility of neuropsychological assessment (NPA), we need to understand what aspects referrers value. We aimed to use quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate the value of NPA for a diverse range of Australian private practice referrers. Method: Forty-nine referrers to Australian private neuropsychology practices completed a 25-item online survey evaluating referrer satisfaction, report preferences, barriers to referral, and views on the most beneficial outcome(s) of NPA. Sixteen referrers participated in individual online semi-structured interviews to provide richer accounts of these issues. Results: Referrers’ survey responses indicated high satisfaction, and that NPA was considered valuable for diagnostic clarification, management planning, and access to support. Participants valued individualised reports with user-friendly explanations of findings and tailored recommendations. Interview data revealed four themes: (1) neuropsychologists possess unique expertise which carries weight amongst referrers and services, (2) neuropsychology enhances understanding of the person and problem, (3) neuropsychology guides healthcare and support, (4) financial, structural, and geographical barriers occur in accessing NPA and implementing supports. Conclusions: Referrers’ perspectives can inform neuropsychologists’ approach to their work and optimise clinical utility. Future clinical trials should measure the reported useful outcomes of NPA to demonstrate more rigorously the evidence for the value of NPA.