"How to" operate a pediatric neuropsychology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic: Real tips from one practice's...

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Pediatric Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid adaptation of healthcare services.
• Maintaining essential pediatric neuropsychology evaluations posed significant challenges due to physical distancing requirements.
• Existing clinical practices required modification to ensure patient safety and assessment integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide pediatric neuropsychologists with actionable processes and procedures for delivering services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To offer guidance on adapting clinical practices for pediatric neuropsychological evaluations under physical distancing mandates.
• To address ethical considerations, equity, and assessment validity in the context of pandemic-related service modifications.

Main Methods:

• Development of suggested modifications for in-person patient encounters.
• Guidelines for implementing telehealth services in pediatric neuropsychology.
• Establishment of safety standards and requirements for clinical settings.
• Strategies for assessing special pediatric populations, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, bilingual needs, compromised immunity, and those requiring acute inpatient assessment.

Main Results:

• The paper outlines practical strategies for modifying clinical workflows to accommodate physical distancing.
• Recommendations for the effective and ethical use of telehealth in pediatric neuropsychology are presented.
• Specific considerations and adaptations for vulnerable pediatric populations are detailed, addressing unique assessment needs.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric neuropsychology services can be effectively continued during a global pandemic through strategic adaptation of practices.
• Telehealth and modified in-person assessments, guided by safety protocols, are viable options.
• Addressing the needs of diverse and vulnerable pediatric populations is crucial for equitable and valid neuropsychological care during public health crises.