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Neurologist appt
Any suggestions on how to get a neurologist appointment for something other than Botox for migraines. I was referred to one by family doctor because I was experiencing cognitive decline. They called and told me they could get me right in for migraines but I would have to wait six months to discuss the cognitive issue. So I waited and went to the appointment, the neurologist refused to discuss the cognitive issue, said that was a separate appointment and we were talking migraines that day. I do have migraines but that is not what I wanted. I have brain damage from having three craniotomy’s in 2000 and that caused loss of cognitive ability also. I’ve worked the entire time at a full time job with one accommodation and it has been very hard. So when when I started having more thinking problems I was concerned, I’m only 60. Now I can’t get an appointment at all or referral. Mayo said they didn’t have room for me but wanted me to fax my records. Hard no. I’m frustrated and want help with this issue
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@hakablue
Where do you live (what state/region)?
I hear your concern. You need to find a neurologist that will do a full evaluation of all symptoms and do proper testing/imaging to diagnose and treat.
I would think that you could find a new, highly rated neurologist that specializes in memory/dementia, get on their schedule, and ask to be added to a cancellation list to get you in sooner. You could also keep a regular reminder on your calendar to call the office to check for cancellations to squeeze yourself in.
Another option would be to go to the emergency department to be seen sooner if you have concerning symptoms. You don’t know if you have mini strokes that could be affecting your memory and would only know if you had a MRI of your brain.
If you can get a referral to John Hopkins neurologist you won't be sorry. Not sure where you are, but they are excellent!!
That is just unbelievable. I was able to get an appt at Cleveland Clinic within about two months with a neurologist, that was back two months ago. If you are close or are willing to travel, CC is top notch care. I am starting to repeat this comment often. “This is no time to be aging in America!” My dad passed at 96 in 2019, and we had no problems having him seen etc. Back before Covid we didn’t have the problems we have getting appointments and treatments. I’ve heard other stories similar to yours about having to wait for cancer treatments. Perhaps our medical infrastructure has not kept up with demand by new immigrants. America needs to recruit new doctors. I was told specifically there is a shortage of Neuros. PS If you do have to make an appt out aways, be sure to get on a wait list and call regularly for a cancellation. Post how things are going, praying you get the attention you deserve.
I am so sorry for the troubles getting appointments that you are having. However, the bottom line - you are going to have to travel. either do a self referral or have a physician refer you to the larger medical institutions ie John Hopkins, Vanderbilt, Duke etc. Unfortunately, most are up and down the east coast. But it can be done. I live in the deep south and managed a referral to Duke, so it can be done. UAB/Atlanta have some great facilities. Best of luck!