Survey of Scottish psychiatrists' views on neuropsychology training

Abstract

AIMS AND METHOD: A national survey of members of the Scottish division of the Royal College of Psychiatrists to establish the training in neuropsychology they have received, their views on neuropsychology service provision and on potential formal postgraduate neuropsychology training opportunities. RESULTS: A 54% (n = 288) consultant psychiatrist response rate was achieved. The responses suggest that where specialist neuropsychology services exist, they are not perceived to be sufficient to deal with clinical demand. Consultant psychiatrists indicated that there are limited training opportunities in neuropsychology for psychiatrists, and this seems to be reflected in their limited confidence in interpreting basic recommended neuropsychological assessment tools. There seems to be a definite desire among consultant psychiatrists for postgraduate training opportunities. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Scottish psychiatrists desire an increase in formal neuropsychology training opportunities.