Efficient neuropsychological assessment: Reducing the duration of test research

Abstract

Current changes in health and health centers require efficient neuropsychological assessment. This thesis evaluates whether reduction in assessment time of neuropsychological evaluation can be accomplished by using abbreviated test versions. Abbreviated forms of frequently used neuropsychological tests were selected from literature or developed. Multiple methods were used to examine not only their psychometric quality, but also to compare their diagnostic quality with the original tests. The results showed that some abbreviated forms can replace original tests in neuropsychological evaluation for diagnostic purposes. However, other abbreviated forms should not even be used as screening instruments. Although the use of abbreviated forms can definitely contribute to efficient neuropsychological assessment, it is important that the quality of these forms is examined carefully.