Familiarity with Neuropsychological Assessment among Israeli Physicians

OBJECTIVE: The current study examines whether Israeli physicians are familiar with neuropsychological assessment (NPA) in general and with referral to NPA in particular. METHOD: In total, 274 physicians in relevant fields participated in an online survey that targeted levels of familiarity with NPA, beliefs about assessment needs, and actual referral practices. RESULTS: Israeli physicians see many patients with neuropsychological difficulties, but assess fewer patients for these difficulties by themselves. Approximately 80% of participants reported that they had heard of NPA before, but only 25% knew how to refer patients to NPA. Familiarity was greater among neurologists and neurosurgeons than among family doctors. CONCLUSIONS: Physicians had only general knowledge about NPA, with little practical understanding of how to refer patients to such a service. To increase referral rates and create consistent demand for effective neuropsychological services, neuropsychologists should engage in greater advocacy activity that will lead to clarification of referral procedures.