Pediatric Neuropsychological Testing
Your doctor has asked that your child have neuropsychological testing. We will test your child’s thinking skills. This can include:
- Problem-solving.
- Memory.
- Speed of thought.
- Attention.
- Language.
- Academic skills.
This testing will give your doctor useful information about your child’s strengths and any problems that may be present.
What to do
Most often, a referral is required by insurance companies. Check with your insurance company to see if the testing is covered. Also, check to see if your doctor sent a referral. Call the Neuropsychology Clinic at 608-263-5430 to schedule an appointment. The staff member who schedules your child will discuss the details of the visit with you.
A parent must come with the child and remain on site for testing. Plan on a half-day visit for children under age 6 and a full-day visit for children age 6 and older. A full-day visit can last 6 hours or a typical school day. The length of the visit depends on the questions asked by your child’s doctor and the findings of the Neuropsychologist. Due to the length of the visit and the limited space in our office, it is best if you do not bring other children with you. If possible, make other arrangements for your children.
Finding the Neuropsychology Clinic
The clinic is at the UW Hospital. Enter at the Clinics entrance. You will need to stop at Clinics Registration. This is in the Main Lobby on the second floor. From there, you go to the Neurodiagnostics department. Neuropsychology is located here. Go through the H elevator lobby to the J lobby. Check in with the Neurodiagnostics front desk staff once you arrive.
Before Your Child’s Visit
You will receive a packet of information. This will include a questionnaire and behavior checklists for you to fill out. It will also include behavior checklists for your child’s teacher to fill out. It is important that each of these forms be filled out completely. Be as accurate as you can be. Return these to the clinic one week before your child’s visit.
The child should take regular medicines as he or she does each day. Bring these with you so the child can take them at the normal times. Be sure to bring glasses, hearing aids, or any other assistive devices the child uses. It is very important that the child sleeps well the night before the visit and has a good breakfast before the visit. If your child is sick, please call and we will re-schedule the test. Taking these steps will help ensure that your child performs at his or her best.
The Procedure
You and your child will meet with the Neuropsychologist. During the interview, you will be asked about your child’s medical problems, developmental history, education, and any problems he or she is having. Please be sure to bring any paperwork that will help you answer these questions. For most of the day, your child will work one-on-one with a tester. Testing is much like taking tests at school. The child will answer questions, solve problems, and complete pencil and paper tasks. Parents are not allowed to take part in or watch the testing.
There will be a lunch break if testing goes into the afternoon. Other testing breaks are allowed as needed. The child is allowed to have snacks and drinks during the testing session. You may bring snacks from home or buy them in the cafeteria.
Results
Once the testing is complete, the Neuropsychologist will study the results. Unlike the tests for school, the child will not receive a “pass” or “fail” grade. Information gathered from these tests helps the doctor come to know your child’s strengths and weaknesses. The results are compared with the results of other children of a similar age. If the child has been tested before, those scores will be compared to the new results. The Neuropsychologist then writes a report. The test results will be sent to your doctor in 2 to 3 weeks.
Thank you for taking the time to complete and return the forms before your child’s visit. The information provided will be used as we prepare for your child’s testing. We look forward to meeting you and your child.
Alanna Kessler-Jones, Psy.D.
Neuropsychology Clinic J5/2 (6180)
UW Hospitals and Clinics
600 Highland Ave
Madison, WI 53792-6180
If you have any questions about your appointment or test results, please feel free to call us at 608-263-5430 or the toll-free number 1-800-323-8942.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 06/05/2012
Copyright © 05/15/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6192
Print Health Fact For You