3 Points To Consider When Choosing a Neurologist in NY

People see neurologists after head injuries, seizures, unexplained headaches, memory problems and a wide array neurological symptoms.

Here are a few suggestions for helping you choose the best neurologist for your situation.

Work with your treatment team. If you’re at the point where you’re seeing a neurologist, you’ve probably been through several doctors already. Maybe it’s your primary care physician, or the doctor who was on duty when you came into the emergency room. These doctors know the most about your specific medical history and might be able to suggest a trusted colleague or a specialist they’re familiar with, or a doctor within the same hospital system who can work with the records already on file. The opposite is also true; if your treatment team recommends a doctor you don’t feel comfortable with, don’t be afraid to speak up and continue the search.

Be Prepared. Write down any questions or concerns you may have. Bring any medical records, test results, medications, names and phone numbers of any doctors you have seen.

Trust your instincts. It is of the utmost important that you feel comfortable talking to your doctor and are able to share your concerns with him or her. If you are nervous or uncomfortable, he or she may miss something important. Consider the office environment: do you feel relaxed and welcome in the waiting room? Does the doctor take an appropriate amount of time with you, and does she listen to your concerns? Has she reviewed your chart in advance, or do you have to explain everything about your case over again? If any of these factors are an issue, you can consider consulting with another neurologist.

It also doesn’t hurt to check online reviews and available resources. Independent organizations, such as ZocDoc and Health grades, regularly publish lists of top specialists in different medical fields. Review such lists for doctors who have developed a reputation for excellence. With time, patience, research, and a little help from one’s insurance company, finding a neurologist in the greater New York area should not feel like a difficult task.

Gary Starkman

Dr. Starkman, a top Neurologist in NYC, is the Medical Director and founder of New York Neurology Associates. He is Board Certified in Neurology with a subspecialty certification in Pain Medicine.