How long does an assessment take?
Evaluations are usually accomplished in two to three sessions each of which lasts from 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
As individuals proceed at differing rates on many of these measures, at times the testing sessions may be slightly longer
or shorter. With very young children the testing may be divided into four sessions.
When
are evaluations done?
It is generally preferable to do the testing in the morning rather than after school. This minimizes the impact
of cognitive fatigue on the test results and provides information about the individual's ability to manage demanding tasks
over a period of time which parallels a morning in school. This is particularly true with children of elementary school age.
Many local high schools have rotating block schedules and early dismissal “flex" days and it is possible
to schedule the testing to coincide with these. Depending on the individual’s schedule it is also possible to do the
assessments in the early morning (e.g. 8-10:30 AM) so as to minimize disruption of the school day. This can work quite
well if the first classes of the day are non-academically demanding (e.g. art , PE, or computers) or are in subjects in which
the student is doing quite well.
How does this testing differ from testing done by the public schools?
Public school assessments are generally designed to determine if a child qualifies
for special education services. Private evaluations are designed to identify strengths and weaknesses, the factors interfering
with a client's functioning, and provide recommendations to enhance performance.
What should I tell my child prior to the assessment?
It is usually best to focus on the positive aspects of the evaluation. Even young children are often
aware that they are experiencing some struggles. Telling them the goal is to identify how they learn best and to make things
easier for them is usually quite reassuring. Students can also be told that while many of the tests will involve information
and tasks that are familiar, some will be new, and they are not expected to know answers to all questions. There will not
be anything which is likely to be physically uncomfortable.
What is included in the fee?
The flat fee for the assessment includes a discussion (by phone or in person) prior
to the evaluation, the testing, test scoring/analysis, report preparation, and meeting with you to discuss the test results.
Multiple copies of the test report can be provided as needed.
Consultations and school meetings are billed
on an hourly basis to the nearest half-hour.
Does insurance cover the cost of testing?
Most insurance covers only the cost of medically necessary evaluations. If
you wish to check with your insurance to see if the assessment might be covered, the CPT codes for neuropsychological
testing are 96132, 96133, 96136 and 96137. Each code covers a portion of the evaluation so that typically all four are
used.
What insurance
do you accept?
I am no longer
on any insurance panels and do not bill insurance companies directly. Many insurance companies provide partial re-imbursement for out-of-network providers. You should
check with your carrier to clarify their policies. I am happy to provide you with a bill which you can submit to them
once the assessment has been completed.
