Teleneuropsychological assessment in South America: A perspective from patients and neuropsychologists

Abstract

Teleneuropsychology (teleNP) in Argentina was promoted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This investigation aimed to evaluate patients’ and neuropsychologists’ satisfaction with teleNP and to identify the advantages and disadvantages of its use. 41 patients with mild cognitive impairment and 35 neuropsychologists from Argentina were surveyed. Both groups were sent a questionnaire by e-mail to evaluate their satisfaction and preferences regarding teleNP. Patients were sent the survey after being cognitively evaluated by teleNP. Outcomes reflected a 91% degree of satisfaction with teleNP, with no differences between patients and specialists (p = 0.112). Regarding patients, 50% had no predilection regarding evaluation modality, and 35.7% preferred teleNP. The main benefits identified were accessibility to remote areas (72.4%), and comfort of performing the assessment at home (57.14%). Moreover, 74.3% of practitioners reported that the principal difficulty was the patient’s lack of familiarity with the technology, and 60% a deficiency in environmental control. TeleNP cognitive evaluation has a high degree of acceptability for practitioners and patients. The main obstacles identified are network connection problems and the lack of familiarity with technology. The principal advantages come from accessing isolated areas. This suggests that this practice will remain relevant beyond the pandemic context.