Is the neuropsychologist qualified to render impairment ratings?
Yes. In fact, it is the set of results from objective neuropsychological tests that provides the best foundation for rating functional impairment. If the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment are used, the nervous system section of the rating guidelines relies on functional consequences of altered mental status, language, consciousness, and behavior exactly that which is objectively evaluated in the neuropsychological examination. 16. How can the neuropsychological examination help to offer an accurate prognosis? Neuropsychological status, as well as medical condition, forms the basis for prognosis following a brain injury. Extent of an injury (structurally and functionally), rate of recovery so far, complicating factors such as severe pain and other injuries, emotional and psychological reactions, support (or lack thereof) from family and employers, attitudes in the injured person about health and recovery, potential secondary gains from injury, cognitive and attitudina
