This could be the neurologist your regular healthcare provider referred you to when you started having symptoms, of course. But if for any reason you feel this healthcare provider isn’t right for you, you may feel daunted by the prospect of searching for a new one.
This article will walk you through the steps to follow when searching for a neurologist to help you manage your condition.
Step 1: Get a Sense of Your Options
There are no cookie-cutter MS doctors. Neurologists approach the job of caring for MS patients from different vantage points, and some may have special areas of expertise or strengths that resonate with your medical history.
Some common differences among healthcare providers to keep in mind:
Specialization
Although many healthcare providers focus only on MS, others treat multiple neurological diseases and disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and epilepsy.
A possible advantage of teaming up with an MS-only neurologist is that he or she likely will have seen more patients with MS than a more general practitioner and may have experience with more variations of the disease. In addition, the staff of such a healthcare provider may be especially knowledgeable and able to answer many of your basic questions.
Approach to Treatment
Some neurologists rely largely on disease-modifying medications and will start virtually every new patient on such treatment. Others take a more holistic approach and integrate psychological support, nutritional guidance, and physical therapy into patient care. They may even suggest and help you use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) options, such as yoga, meditation, and more.
Research Involvement
Many neurologists who do multiple sclerosis research at academic medical centers also care for patients. There are pros and cons to signing on with such healthcare providers. One advantage is they tend to be current on the latest treatments. On the other hand, their involvement in research may cause them to be less accessible.
Step 2: Zero in on a Convenient Location
If you find a healthcare provider who seems to be a perfect fit but is based some distance away, it’s important to keep this in mind. Even if you’re willing to make the trip, it may be wise to estimate factors such as conflicting commitments, travel costs, and fatigue.
Having a long-distance healthcare provider also may be disadvantageous if you need immediate treatment for an MS flare of symptoms.
Step 3: Cast a Wide Net
Armed with a broad idea of the type of healthcare provider and care you’re looking for, begin gathering names.
Since you ultimately want a healthcare provider who accepts your health insurance, you may want to start by getting a list of neurologists who are on your plan and within easy traveling distance. Most carrier websites have tools to help you filter a search accordingly; alternatively, you can call customer service for assistance.
Whether you begin with a list of neurologists on your insurance plan or not, good sources for recommendations and/or insights about healthcare providers you’re considering include:
Step 4: Vet the Candidates
The healthcare provider won’t be the only person in a neurology practice you’ll want to factor into your decision.
Speak to the Receptionist
Although it sometimes is possible to schedule an appointment with a doctor on the website of the practice, at least for an initial meeting it’s a good idea to call the office and speak to the office manager or receptionist. You’ll get a sense of the general vibe and also may be able to get answers to some of your general questions about, say, the healthcare provider and his or her style.
Interview the Healthcare Provider
Arrive at your first appointment with a list of prepared questions, including:
Do not hesitate to ask these or any other questions; assert yourself to make sure they get answered. If you’re concerned about this, bring a trusted friend or family member to take notes, ask follow-up questions, and advocate for you. This person can also provide you with his or her opinion of the healthcare provider after the appointment, which can be especially helpful if you’re on the fence about a particular healthcare provider.
Preparing for Appointments
Once you’ve chosen a healthcare provider, there are things you can do on an ongoing basis to be an empowered patient at each visit. To begin with, don’t assume that your healthcare provider is going to take the lead and tell you everything you need to know about, say, your latest imaging test or new symptoms.
Treat healthcare provider appointments like important business meetings—prepare for them. Get your thoughts and questions organized beforehand, and don’t think you’re overstepping your boundaries: Your healthcare provider actually will respect you for coming prepared and appreciate your efforts. Use our Doctor Discussion Guide below to prepare for your appointment and start a conversation with the healthcare provider about your condition.
Update Your Healthcare Provider
On paper, summarize how you’re feeling and how your MS is affecting you in short, direct bullet points. For example, to help your healthcare provider understand your pain, a symptom that can be especially difficult to describe, jot down as many descriptors as you can and be very specific.
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For instance, don’t say your back hurts, but rather “my low back hurts and sometimes the pain shoots down my back leg.” Or when describing how the pain feels, use words like “throbbing,” “sharp,” or “stabbing.”
Also list lifestyle adjustments you’re making—i.e., changes in your diet, exercise, and supplements. Let your healthcare provider know about any alternative treatments you receive, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy.
Decide What You Want to Improve
Make a list of anything about your health that you want to improve. For example, if you let your healthcare provider know that you are having trouble sleeping, he or she may change the time of day you take a medication, which may make a big difference.
List Any Additional Questions
Keep in mind there’s no such thing as a bad question or topic, especially when it comes to taking charge of your healthcare. What some people may think is insignificant—say, not being able to finish the Sunday crossword puzzle—may be a big deal to you. Likewise, unusual concerns like wondering if laser hair removal treatments will cause an MS relapse are important to get clarification on, even if you may be the only one asking about them.
Have a Note-taking Plan
Even at routine checkups, it can be helpful to bring someone along to take notes and to ask questions you may not think of. If the person happens to be a family member or someone who spends a great deal of time with you, they also may be able to contribute their observations about the progression of your MS for your healthcare provider.
Give Yourself a Pep Talk
Whether you have “white coat syndrome,” meaning you’re nervous around healthcare providers, or you’re totally comfortable with your neurologist, adopt a positive attitude about your appointments. Remind yourself that even if your neurologist is a medical genius, he or she cannot read your mind or see what is happening with your symptoms outside of his office unless you tell him or her.
A Word From Verywell
Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis can be an overwhelming time for you and your loved one, and finding a neurologist to help care for you is the first step in this long journey. Try to take it day by day and remember, you are not alone, and you can feel well again.
