Neuropsychology Center
Patient Services
Assessment and Evaluation
Patients
with suspected brain injury or neurological disease can be evaluated
in depth across a broad range of adaptive behaviors (cortical
functions). Neuropsychological testing and other psychometric
techniques are used to assess patients of all ages. Both
cognitive/ cortical functions and emotional factors are evaluated. This
thorough description of behavioral capabilities dependent on brain
function allows the patients, family, and referring clinician to
understand the nature and extent of disability.
Plans for
rehabilitation, adaptation, treatment, and prognosis can be based upon
this assessment. Baseline and subsequent assessments over time plot
the patient's recovery process and provide a basis for future
comparisons. Following assessment, detailed interpretative sessions to
convey results and recommendations are offered to the patient and
family.
Rehabilitation Planning and Triage
Patients and their families are helped to
come to terms with the confusing implications brain injury or disease
may have for personal, family, educational, and vocational functioning.
A family member's dysfunction affects the complex interplay of family
roles.
The Center works closely with referring
clinicians and prefers to work through already established
patient-professional relations for treatment and rehabilitation when
possible. A thorough knowledge of, and close relationship with,
medical-psychological, educational, social, and rehabilitative services
in other departments of Eastern Virginia Medical School and the greater
Tidewater and Hampton Roads Community allows effective triage to
treatment and rehabilitation not provided by the Center. This referral
and follow-through service (whether to appropriate professional or
support groups) is a crucial part of rehabilitation.
Referrals
The Neuropsychology Center welcomes referrals from neurologists,
neurosurgeons, physiatrists, family physicians, pediatricians, teachers,
therapists, rehabilitation specialists, and other professionals, as well
as direct contact from patients and their families. Call 446-8400 to
talk to a staff member and/or make an appointment.
The Center prefers to work through
pre-established patient-professional relationships so that assessment
information is shared with the referring professional who then makes any
further disposition decisions and retains primary case management
authority.
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