H - 71 Development and Implementation of a Neuropsychology Program for Spanish-Speaking Patients at Cleveland Clinic Nevada.

Abstract

There is a significant need for culturally-informed neuropsychology services for patients from underrepresented communities, particularly those with limited English proficiency. Given the finite number of bilingual neuropsychologists, working with interpreters and bilingual psychometrists is important for increasing access to equitable care, though many neuropsychologists lack training in these approaches. We present a model for the development and implementation of a neuropsychology program for Spanish-speaking patients in an outpatient academic medical setting. To develop our service, we first identified the primary patient population to be served and common referral questions. We then consulted with national and international experts to identify best practices for establishing a new clinical service line for Spanish-speaking patients, which included a survey of available Spanish-language tests and normative data, resources for interpretation, and case consultation. After consulting with colleagues at Cleveland Clinic Ohio and UCLA, we established a formal consultation agreement with a multilingual neuropsychologist with expertise in program development. Consultation focused on best practices for working with interpreters and Hispanic patients, selection of tests and normative sources, and ongoing clinical case consultation. The new service was initiated in March 2023 and includes conducting clinical interviews with virtual interpreters and testing by a bilingual psychometrist. Comprehensive assessments are currently being provided for Spanish-speaking patients, and trainees also receive experience and supervision with these cases. Developing clinical neuropsychology services for culturally- and linguistically-diverse patients is critically needed. In addition to addressing barriers to care, ensuring high-quality evaluations through prospective consultation with dedicated experts is important for program development.