Treatments and Therapies

Finding the Right Neurologist

Finding the right doctor is an essential part of your ongoing Parkinson’s treatment.

If possible, see a Movement Disorder Specialist (MDS) for your Parkinson’s care. An MDS is a neurologist who has specialized in the area of movement disorders by completing a “fellowship” – typically a two year commitment in movement disorders. As well as patient care, an MDS may also be involved in research and/or teaching. This is good news for patients as the teaching and research keeps the MDS on the forefront of new findings and new procedures that relate to Parkinson’s disease. Such professionals follow a greater number of patients with Parkinson’s than general neurologists. They are more experienced than neurologists, internists, and general practitioners in the use of Parkinson’s medications and other treatments.

Definitions of Parkinson’s Disease Specialists

There are many times of specialist involved in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system.

 

A neurologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of movement disorders.

 

A psychologist who specializes in studying brain behavior.

A surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with injuries and diseases of the brain, spine and peripheral nerves.

 

Is your doctor right for you?

The first step is finding a qualified physician. Each type of insurance is different, but typically you will be required to be referred to a specialist – such as a neurologist – by your primary care doctor. If your symptoms warrant it, your doctor can refer you to a neurologist. This neurologist may decide that you should see a neurologist who is a Movement Disorder Specialist. If you have a preference as to which MDS you would most like to be seen by, be sure to discuss this with the doctor who is writing your referral order. In outlying areas where there are no MDS to see, try to at least be seen by a neurologist.

The second step is considering whether the neurologist or Movement Disorder Specialist is the right one for you. You should feel comfortable in this relationship and feel that you and the MDS are a good “match”.

Consider these questions:

  • Are you comfortable speaking with your physician? No matter how prestigious the doctor’s credentials might be, if you feel intimidated in talking to the doctor, that’s probably not the right doctor for you.
  • Do you feel respected by your doctor?
  • Do you feel the doctor has your best interests at heart?
  • Are questions answered to your satisfaction?
  • Do you feel that your concerns have been taken seriously?
  • Can you get in touch with the doctor between visits? How long before the doctor will call you back if you call in with a problem?
  • Does your physician have a backup physician you can reach in the event your doctor is out of town?

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