Frequently Asked Questions

To determine the integrity of cognitive functions:

• The evaluation is recommended when there are symptoms or complaints involving your thinking abilities, which are often signaled by changes in concentration, memory, organization, reasoning, language, visual perception, and mood and personality. Testing is helpful in determining the presence, nature, and severity of the symptoms. This can serve as a baseline to monitor for future changes in cognition, mood, and personality, which can help to guide treatment.

To confirm or clarify a diagnosis (differential diagnosis):

• The testing allows for the evaluation and detection of cerebral dysfunction when there is an absence of clear anatomical evidence of changes. The evaluation will also identify psychological factors such as depression that can contribute to cognitive dysfunction.

Treatment planning:

• The evaluation helps to identify cognitive weaknesses that are likely interfering with your functioning at work, home, or school. Personalized treatment recommendations are provided based on this information (e.g., strategies to compensate for weaknesses, further medical workups and rehabilitation, educational, vocational, or other services/accommodations).

The evaluation consists of:

• Approximately 3-4 hours of your time, depending on the referral question/needs.

• An interview in which you (and family/close friends) will be asked about your cognitive symptoms, medical history, medications, and other important factors. The interview can take up to one hour.

• Testing is a non-invasive process. A series of written and verbal tests is administered, assessing various cognitive domains (e.g., attention/processing speed, language, memory, planning, problem-solving, visuospatial, and mood).

• Breaks are provided as needed.

• Testing is usually completed in one session. However, for those who are easily fatigued, it can be broken into 2 sessions.

• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results of the evaluation.

• Get a good night’s sleep.

• Eat prior to the appointment, as the evaluation lasts several hours. You are welcome to bring a snack/drink. Coffee, tea, and water can be provided.

• Bring your reading glasses and/or hearing aids if you require them.

• Take medications as prescribed/scheduled.

• Please turn off/silence your cell phone during the appointment.

• Family participation in the clinical interview is always desired for additional functional information.

• A detailed report is sent out to the referring MD within two weeks.
• You can schedule an appointment with your MD to discuss the results (they will likely summarize the findings).
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled with Dr. Patel-Ross to discuss in-depth the test results, cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and differential diagnosis, and to discuss recommendations and strategies to optimize your daily functioning and enhance quality of life, and to answer any questions and discuss any concerns you may have.