Choosing experienced medical specialists like a neurologist to handle specific aspects of your care is never an easy task, especially when it comes to issues with the brain and spinal cord. How do you know what to look for, and how do you know that the doctor you see is the best choice?
Luckily, finding a top neurologist in Las Vegas is easy once you understand what to focus on. You just have to learn the tips and tricks that will make your search effortless.
Read on to learn how to find the top neurologist in Las Vegas and get the expert care you need.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
First things first, you’ll need to double-check your insurance benefits. The best way to do this is by calling your insurance company and asking about in-network coverage for specialists in your area.
You should also discuss specific coverage details like copays and testing so you understand what you’ll be financially responsible for.
Understanding your insurance and financial limitations will help you find a top neurologist who takes your insurance coverage so you’re not left with debt you could otherwise avoid.
In most cases, your insurance company will have a list of in-network neurologists to choose from, so make sure you find this information.
Do Extensive Research
Now that you have your insurance details sorted out, you can start with Google and go through the neurologists in your area. Pay special attention to what current and former patients are saying by taking the time to look at Google reviews.
These reviews give you much-needed insight into what the experience is like. However, make sure to take a balanced approach when reading reviews, as you’ll always encounter a negative review. Instead, look for a good feel for the overall experience.
Next, take a look at each neurologist’s website to learn more about their staff, services, location, and patient testimonials.
You can also find ratings and reviews on sites like Healthgrade and RateMDs.com. These sites rank doctors based on a specific percentage of patient reviews and criteria like bedside manner and staff friendliness.
Remember, don’t rush over this part of the process. Taking the time to do this basic research will help you narrow down the list to your top three picks.
Ask for Referrals
Asking for referrals can make finding a neurologist a much easier process. Beyond Google, your primary care physician is going to be one of your top resources since they know the best physicians in the local area.
Most primary care doctors will have a list of various specialists they’ve worked with in the past and can easily point you in the right direction. You can also ask other healthcare providers, like your dentist.
In addition, asking family, friends, and coworkers is also a smart move, and you’ll often find unexpected referrals work out for the best. The great part about this is you can dig deep and ask specific questions about the doctor’s bedside manner, communication style, and the overall feel of the office.
Consider the Location
As they say, location is everything, and this holds true for your doctor’s office. Going to a neurologist can be a time-consuming process as you may have multiple appointments and different tests.
Look for locations that are near your work or home so you’re not constantly traveling long distances to get to your appointment. In addition, it’s essential to check office hours to ensure their scheduling times align with your availability.
Remember, it’s worth finding something accessible in your area so that you don’t miss any appointments.
Look at Overall Experience
Dealing with neurological conditions is no small thing and has the potential to completely change your life. You need an experienced local neurologist who has experience in treating a variety of conditions, from traumatic brain injuries and migraines to strokes and neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s Disease.
That being said, it’s essential to look for a neurologist that has the right kind of experience. Your first stop in this part of the process is the doctor’s website. You should be able to find information about past education, credentials, licenses, and work history of each neurologist in the practice.
Next, you’ll need to call and ask questions about the conditions your neurologist treats. Remember, numerous conditions fall under neurology, and some neurologists only focus on specific issues like movement disorders or epilepsy.
A top neurologist will be well-versed in common neurological symptoms and will be able to discuss your issues extensively. Don’t be afraid to ask how many patients they’ve treated with your condition during your initial consultation.
Learn More About the Office and Staff
Although searching through online reviews is important, it can only take you so far. Learning more about the office and staff will help you to make the final decision.
Don’t forget you won’t only be seeing the neurologist during your appointments. The office staff is a critical part of your care team.
Take the time to visit the office and get a feel for the staff. Pay close attention to how they greet you and communicate overall. This includes front desk staff, billing staff, office managers, and nurses.
The communication style of the doctor counts. A top neurologist should have no trouble taking the time to answer questions and explain the details of your condition so you feel comfortable about your health.
Ask About In-Office Diagnostic Procedures
Finally, you’ll want to find a top neurologist who does in-office neurodiagnostic procedures regularly. Having this is essential for accessibility and will make the diagnostic process much easier.
You should look for tests like an electroencephalogram (EEG), which looks for abnormalities in your brain’s electrical activity and brain waves.
Other tests to look for include a vestibular nystagmogram (VNG), which measures involuntary movements known as Nystagmus. Nystagmus involves repetitive movements that are fast or jerky and can send your brain conflicting messages causing dizziness.
See a Top Neurologist in Las Vegas Today
Following these tips will help you find a top neurologist in Las Vegas that you can trust.
It’s time to take the next steps by scheduling an appointment with the professionals at Neuorcare of Nevada. Our clinic focuses on quality and compassionate care, and our physician, Dr. Gobinder Chopra, a triple board-certified neurologist, has been treating patients in the Las Vegas area since 1999.
We treat a variety of neurological conditions like brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, neurodegenerative disorders, migraines, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our dedicated team!