Teleneuropsychology during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico: the perspective from a middle-income country

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction The use of teleneuropsychology (TeleNP) increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; however, there have been no studies of the benefits and difficulties with this modality in middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the current use of TeleNP in Mexico. Method Mexican neuropsychologists were invited to participate in an online survey regarding the use of TeleNP during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey was based on issues from a literature review and consisted of 36 questions requiring yes/no, multiple choice, or ordinal answers. The survey was created using Google Forms and asked respondents to provide informed consent. A total of 107 clinical neuropsychologists completed the survey. Results 82% of participants currently use TeleNP, and most reported learning about TeleNP through personal experience, literature research, and colleagues. Brief evaluations, delivery of results, and intervention were the principal services provided, most frequently on a home-to-home basis. Almost 30% of clinicians reported not requiring informed consent for use of the modality. Consultations included children, adolescents, and adults in similar numbers; older adults were less frequent. Technological limitations were the most frequent reason for ruling out the modality with particular patients. Perceived benefits included the ability to continue consultations despite social distancing measures, lesser risk of COVID-19 infection, and the possibility of seeing patients with limited access to neuropsychological services. Reasons for not using TeleNP included a lack of standardized instruments, not feeling comfortable with the modality, and lack of technological resources and skills. Conclusions Despite the socioeconomic differences between Mexico and high-income countries, most of our findings were similar to reports from those countries. However, technological limitations were common, and smartphones were commonly used, contrary to recommendations in the literature. The future use of TeleNP in Mexico should include formal training and ethical guidelines.