Undergoing a Neuropsychological Examination
What to bring and what to expect
This page explains what typically happens during a neuropsychological examination at Ormond Neuroscience, and what you should bring with you. If you have not undergone this type of assessment before, the information below should help you prepare.
When should you arrive?
If this is your first visit to Ormond Neuroscience, please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment. There is some paperwork to complete, and arriving early helps ensure that your appointment can start on time.
We make every effort to see patients at their scheduled time. If you arrive late, your appointment may need to be shortened so as not to delay other patients. In such cases, the full appointment fee still applies.
What should you expect?
The clinical interview
Every neuropsychological examination includes a detailed clinical interview. This allows us to understand your concerns, your background, and the difficulties you may be experiencing.
Since brain-related problems can affect many areas of functioning, the interview is necessarily thorough. It commonly takes at least one hour, and may include questions about medical history, emotional functioning, cognition, work, and daily life.
Psychometric Testing
Many patients are asked to complete psychometric testing. These are standardised tests designed to assess aspects of brain function such as attention, memory, reasoning, and sensorimotor coordination.
Testing is conducted by a trained psychometrist and typically takes two to three hours, including a short break. The pace is structured but reasonable, and breaks are built in to reduce fatigue.
Not all patients require testing, and the specific tests used depend on the referral question and clinical context.
What should you bring with you?
Please bring the following, where applicable:
- Medication information
A list of all prescription medication you are currently taking, including the name, dosage, and how often you take it. A copy of your most recent prescription is also acceptable. If you are unsure, you may bring the medication itself in a bag. If possible, email this information to us in advance. - Brain scans and reports
Please bring any relevant brain imaging, including the radiologist’s written report and the CD or DVD containing the images. If you only have printed images, bring them along, although digital images are far more useful. If your referring doctor has the disc, you are entitled to request it. - Other medical reports
Bring reports from relevant investigations such as EEGs, blood tests, or specialist consultations. - An informant
If possible, bring someone who knows you well and can comment on changes in your functioning. This is often a spouse or parent. Honest collateral information is extremely valuable, even if it is sometimes uncomfortable to hear. - Reading glasses, if you use them.
- A light snack
Testing sessions can be lengthy, and having something to eat during the break can help maintain concentration and energy levels. - Identification
Please bring a form of identification, such as a driver’s licence or ID card/book.
A final note
Neuropsychological examinations are not tests that you pass or fail. The goal is to understand how your brain is functioning and how this relates to your everyday life. Being well prepared helps ensure that the assessment is as accurate and informative as possible.
If you have questions before your appointment, you are welcome to contact the practice for clarification.
