How do I find a good neurologist?

[RC.]

Ok ... Now. I'm really good for not putting in the right words for others to be able to make sense of what I say. I'm learning tho. I never passed a grammar/english class...... But Anyway...

How do I find a good neurologist?
(I want to find one) (I want to pick one) There is 20 different ones.

What can I expect to pay for my first visit?

How long can I talk to him/her?

What will I find out on the first visit?

Will I have to pay to go again?

They will tell me stuff I don't know about..?


I can get a referral for any. I just need to pick one.

zip 49684

[Bernard]

Comprehensive list of GOOD Neurologists…Epileptologists…Neurosurgeons…and Pediatric D

[Nakamova]

Hi R.C. --

The cost per visit depends on your health insurance (unless you're paying out of pocket -- I sure hope not!). And usually there's a charge for every visit, at minimum a co-pay -- again depending on your insurance. You should ask how long the appointment will be when you make it, but an initial visit should run 45 minutes to an hour -- the doc will need to take a history, discuss symptoms, test, meds, side effects, etc. It's a good idea to have any of your questions written down to bring to the appointment, so that you don't forget anything. It would be great if you can find a neurologist who is accessible by e-mail, easy to contact with questions, and easy to set up an appointment with, but that tends to be a rarity...

[RobinN]

Since you mention that you can get a referral to go to anyone on your list. Remember that even after you see one, if you are not comfortable with him/her, you are always allowed to go to another for a second opinion.

I personally found it was a matter of trial and error. We were given a name of a neurologist and it was expected that we see him. AWFUL!
We asked to go to a Neurologist at UCLA. They also seemed to make quick judgements and blew the situation off as a psychological problem.
Another neurologist was giving a lecture at a local venue, and I went. She seemed to be offering information that the first seemed clueless about, so we were allowed to go out of network to see her. She does not have much to offer other than meds and surgery, but she is there for the ER to call when necessary. She is supportive of my alternative direction, so we remain connected.
Choices do not have to be final.

BTW - you make perfect sense.

[RC.]

I have been paying out of pocket for everything for 6 years. I'm 25 now and I can not afford it any more. Michigan medicaid is not accepting any new applications. If i where to get disability the medicare would not kick in for 2 years. I have been on the darn phone all day. It is not worth the time.

I did not understand,when I was 19 my $9000.00 medical bills. I was sued by one collections and still will be paying another (corerecovery.biz) for 2 years.

There has got to be something. All of these Epilepsy organizations are just asking for money.



Does anyone know how to make any of these anti-epileptic drugs?
What do I need to make Keppra?
Some days it just seems like I need to.
Yea..yea.... I know that would not be smart.

[RobinN]

I just found this site. You might find it useful

http://www.AdvoConnection.com/

This is her blog post:

http://trishatorrey.com/2009/09/18/a...h-to-patients/

[Bernard]

RC, have a look here:

When You Can't Afford Medication

[RC.]

I still have to read whats above.
I called DHS again today.
Today they told me it may be possible because of my condition.
The person yesterday just did not understand. Yesterday I was told most likely it just would be denied. That discouraged me from continuing on with filling the aplication.
But... will see..

I want to make sure I'm not using this forum / website wrong..
If so let me know. If all is good, Great.

[flinnigan]

You have to keep on DHS all the time they can be a pain in the A. My sister bills them for the same physically disable patients weekly and they still don't get it right. Michigans DHS went through system changes this past summer and they are very backed up. Your better off going in person. Where in Michigan are you?

[Bernard]

I want to make sure I'm not using this forum / website wrong..
If so let me know. If all is good, Great.

You are doing fine. CWE is basically a large collection of discussions on various topics. Sometimes, it's easier to post a link to a previous topic than to repeat it. The more you explore/use the site, the easier it becomes to navigate and find what you need.

The most important thing is to not be afraid to post a comment or ask a question. That's the only way conversations can progress and ideas/information can be shared.

[RC.]

Yesterday I was misinformed or I just did not understand.
I'm talking about Michigan medical assistance. Medicaid

I live in Benzie county.

Flinnigan, You are right and I have to stay on them. I see now. I have found someone to help with Benzie County DHS. I'm doing everything Benzie DHS says. Then I'm talking about it with Wexford county DHS. I can and I might end up transferring my families (wife and 2 kids) case there. Currently my children get medical asistance through Benzie dhs. Im not sure why we have not tried.

[RC.]

This is just a note.
(michigan)
Medicaid
They do not like talking about these on the phone. I emailed them today. Still waiting to here back.------------------------------------------

Is it only up to the case worker to look at a medicaid application to approve or deny it?

If not, who says yes or no?

Is any part of the decision based on what they feel or think?

What knowledge of medical does the deciders position require?

If I want to speak to my case worker in person do they have to speak with me? (like an appointment)

Does my case worker or DHS have to call me back?

How many days do I have to wait for them to call me back?

Is my case worker or DHS only required to contact me through the mail?

Can I appeal the decision?

Will I need my lawyer?

[flinnigan]

I wish I could be of more help. I'm not really sure what your next move is. I don't think a lawyer can help but there is probably some type of appeal process. I'm pretty sure you do need appointments to see them in person. Keep on them and good luck.

[RobinN]

Here is a good article about being your own self advocate:

16 Ways to Be a Smart Self Advocate.