Neuropsychology testing is a special form of psychological testing used to look for injury to the brain. This is done by giving the patient a number of tests designed to check different parts of the brain. The testing can take many hours and must be performed by a psychologist with special training in this type of testing. This type of testing is considered to be very useful after head injuries or certain types of brain surgery to determine what can be done to help the patient get back possible lost brain functions.

Psychological testing and neuropsychological testing are not required for the diagnosis of ADHD, dementia, or most mental health problems. Most mental health diagnoses, like ADHD, are made by observing the patient. Testing may help diagnose learning disabilities, intelligence problems, and personality disorders, but it is not required. If the personal care physician (PCP) is not sure about a mental health diagnosis, he or she should first obtain a full psychiatric evaluation. Testing may then be done if the psychiatrist still cannot decide if the problem is a neurological or psychiatric disorder. If the PCP suspects a neurological disorder but is unsure, it is very important that the patient first have a neurology consultation.

Neuropsychology testing is generally used for patients with a medical history of brain injury and with intellectual and memory problems and patients with epilepsy. Testing for the diagnosis of learning disabilities is not paid for by HAP insurance because it can usually be obtained from the school system.

Neuropsychology testing would not be paid for by HAP if it is used for any of the following things:

(1)	To determine the patient's IQ;
(2)	To evaluate a member for ADHD;
(3)	To evaluate a member for developmental delays, learning problems, or language problems;
(4)	To diagnose or determine the degree of dementia.

Pre-authorization from CBHM, HAP's behavioral medicine services department, is required for psychological testing for any purpose. Your doctor must first contact CBHM to find out whether the testing will be approved. If you have additional questions, please call CBHB at 1-800-444-5755.