The feasibility of videoconferencing for neuropsychological assessments of rural youth experiencing early psychosis

J Telemed Telecare. 2011;17(6):328-31. doi: 10.1258/jtt.2011.101015. Epub 2011 Aug 15.

Abstract

We conducted a pilot study of the feasibility of videoconferencing as a mode of neuropsychological assessment in young people (14-30 years) from a rural area of New South Wales experiencing early psychosis. All participants (n = 11) completed assessments both face-to-face and by videoconference at a bandwidth of 384 kbit/s. Assessments included confirmation of diagnosis, quality of life and neurocognitive functioning. There was a strong correlation between modes of assessment for most instruments. Bland-Altman plots indicated that in general the mean difference between face-to-face and videoconference modes of assessment was close to zero with significant bias only evident for general cognitive functioning (WTAR), where videoconferencing produced higher ratings than face-to-face assessments. Feedback from the participants indicated strong acceptability of assessment by videoconferencing, thus supporting further investigation of use of this mode of assessment for clinical and research purposes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • New South Wales
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Psychotic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Rural Population*
  • Telemedicine* / methods
  • Videoconferencing*
  • Young Adult