Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Neuropsychology: Exploring the implications of new NICE quality standards (2022) for neuropsychologists through a pilot assessment service.

The article focuses on the implications of the 2022 NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) Quality Standards for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) assessment and diagnosis, emphasizing the role of neuropsychological evaluation. A scoping study in Oxfordshire revealed a lack of commissioned services for FASD diagnosis and support despite a notable number of children suspected of having FASD, many of whom remain undiagnosed. A pilot neuropsychology assessment service for seven children demonstrated significant heterogeneity in cognitive and behavioral profiles, highlighting the need for hypothesis-driven, multidisciplinary assessment involving paediatric neuropsychologists. The findings suggest that neuropsychological assessment can enhance understanding and management of FASD, but current service provision is insufficient to meet clinical needs, underscoring the importance of expanding specialist services in line with NICE guidance.