Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been diagnosed for years with a continuous performance task (CPTs) test. The Quotient® computerized diagnostic system is a high-tech version of this type of psychological test. It measures how often a person moves during the test, and asks the person to respond to certain sounds and not to others. It is a suitable test for children and adults. For example, adults may be asked to push a button when a specific shape appears and not a similar but different shape.

People who do not have ADHD do not move as much during the test as people who do. For the best diagnoses, the results of the Quotient® system test are intended to be used along with information from other assessment tools, such as the clinical interview assessment and rating scales.

The Quotient® ADHD system objectively measures the three core symptom areas of ADHD. These are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. The system was developed from research done at the McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate.

The test takes approximately 15 minutes for children under 13 years of age. For adults and adolescents, it takes approximately 20 minutes. When the test is finished, the system quickly analyzes patterns of motion, fluctuations in attention and accuracy of responses. The scores and data provide our specialist with valuable information about the existence of ADHD-related deficits and their magnitude.

The Quotient® system analyzes the pattern of mistakes that the person makes. For example, if he or she responds impulsively when they should not or fails to respond because of a distraction. The system compares one person’s responses to the responses of people of the same age and gender who have already been diagnosed with ADHD and with those who do not have ADHD.

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the Quotient® system to provide an objective measurement of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity for the assessment of ADHD. It allows us to determine if the patient has ADHD or other issues that may mimic ADHD. This information is essential so that the patient is not over or under medicated.

The Quotient® system was created to be attractive to the clinician, as well as the patient and his or her family or caregiver. With its clear, colorful graphics, the system provides a variety of scores that helps the practitioner understand the patient’s unique profile.

The comparisons allow the practitioner to determine the severity of deficits in neurobehavioral performance that is relevant to ADHD. For example, the test can show through the movement of the patient his or her ability to pay attention. When the patient is not attentive, the system shows what happens. The patient may become impulsive, be distracted or become totally disengaged.

The Quotient® system provides the parent, teacher and clinician more tools than ever before to diagnose ADHD and plan a customized treatment to manage patients successfully. With good information, you can make good decisions and provide better treatment. This gives the patient the chance to achieve his or her potential in school, relationships and work, as well as personal satisfaction.

Cady Wellness Institute in Newburgh is proud to offer the Quotient® system as an effective and reliable way to assess ADHD symptoms in patients. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.