Evidence-based research and practice in clinical neuropsychology.

ABSTRACT

While a definition for evidence-based clinical neuropsychological practice (EBCNP) has yet to emerge, it is likely to integrate the same core features as evidence-based medicine; namely, best research evidence, clinical expertise, and individual patient needs. Given the nascent stage of EBCNP, suggestions are made to advance evidence-based approaches in both research and practice. The common elements are recognition that clinical outcomes are recorded at the level of the individual; and to be useful, outcomes research must be presented in a way that can be directly applied on a case-by-case basis. Tracking the outcomes of our clinical services in an evidence-based manner that is publicly verifiable will demonstrate the value of neuropsychological services to our patients, our referral sources, and ultimately to payers.