Neurocognitive Screening Evaluation
Structured evaluation designed to assess cognitive and psychological symptoms and functional impact to inform recommendations.
OVERVIEW
Cognitive complaints, such as memory loss, slowed processing, or “brain fog,” can be difficult to evaluate within a workers’ compensation claim.
The Neurocognitive Screening Evaluation (NCSE) is a structured, work comp–specific assessment developed by Ascellus to determine whether cognitive impairment is present, whether it is consistent with the work injury, and what next steps are appropriate.
NCSE provides timely insight without requiring a full neuropsychological evaluation when it may not be warranted.
Why It Matters
Without structured evaluation:
- Claims may stall due to uncertainty
- Unnecessary escalation to full neuropsych testing may occur
- Work status decisions may be delayed
NCSE helps clarify these questions early, supporting more efficient claim progression.
How It Works
A qualified neuropsychologist or clinical psychologist conducts a structured evaluation that includes:
Clinical interview and medical record review
Standardized cognitive screening
Assessment of psychological symptoms
Performance and symptom validity measures
Work-focused interpretation of findings
What This Delivers
- Objective assessment of cognitive and psychological functioning
- Determination of whether findings are consistent with the work injury
- Identification of factors impacting work functioning
- Recommendations for next steps, including:
- Return-to-work considerations
- Additional testing (if needed)
- Targeted intervention
- Clear, defensible documentation aligned with claim needs
When To Use NCSE
NCSE may be appropriate when:
- Cognitive complaints persist following concussion or head injury
- Symptoms exceed expected recovery timelines
- Questions exist regarding work capacity
- It is unclear whether full neuropsychological testing is necessary
How It’s Delivered
- Delivered virtually for consistent access
- Conducted by WC-trained neuropsychologists and clinical psychologists
- Integrated with the broader claim and care plan
- Structured to provide timely, actionable insight
- Assessment of cognitive and psychological factors
- Identification of conditions impacting function
- Determination of need for further evaluation
When It’s Used
Structured neurocognitive screening has been shown to:
- Support faster return-to-work timelines
- Reduce unnecessary time off work
- Decrease escalation to more intensive evaluation
- Provide clear direction for next steps in the claim