Limited Access to Neuropsychological Testing in the Philippines

Neuropsychological Testing

Assesses cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning.

Neuropsychological Testing

Measures memory, attention, problem-solving, language, and motor functions.

Neuropsychological Testing

Identifies cognitive decline, distinguishes psychiatric from neurologic conditions (Schroeder, 2019).

Mental health is underfunded despite rising cases.

Current Situation in the Philippines

RA 11036 (Mental Health Act)

aims to uphold mental health rights, but issues like poor funding, lack of staff, and fragmented care persist (Del Peña et al., 2024; Thim, 2025).

Tests often based on Western standards; not culturally/linguistically suited for Filipinos.

Misinterpretation may lead to misdiagnosis (ipl.org, 2021).

Language & Cultural Issues

Testing centers mostly in urban areas (e.g., Metro Manila).

Rural areas lack access due to travel, cost, and shortage of professionals.

Geographical Disparity

High cost of private testing; public services overcrowded and underfunded (PMHA, 2024).

Financial Constraints

Only 600 psychiatrists for over 100 million people.

Neuropsychologists mostly based in cities.

Shortage of Experts

Mental illness seen as weakness or spiritual punishment.

Many avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment (WHO, 2021; APA PsycNet, n.d.).

Social Stigma

Increase residency slots and incentives for rural placements.

Train GPs in basic mental health care.

Localize and standardize culturally appropriate tests.

Launch awareness campaigns to reduce stigma.

Integrate mental health into primary care and promote telemedicine (Thim, 2025).

Suggested Solutions

Lack of access to neuropsychological testing affects diagnosis and treatment.

Improving funding, training, test localization, and public education can bridge this gap and strengthen the country's mental health system.

Conclusion