Neurologists are one of the most important medical specialists in the world, but many people have a misconception about what it is that neurologists do. To clear up any confusion, a neurologist is a specialist in disorders of the central nervous system and nerves in general. There is a broad spectrum of disorders that a neurologist can treat, including epilepsy, Parkinson’s Disease, and stroke. If you’ve never been to a neurologist, you’re fortunate enough to have never had a central nervous system disorder that requires treatment. If you’ve been referred to a Palm Beach neurology specialist, here are a few things to look for if you want to make sure that your new specialist is good at what he does.
Bedside Manner
This is an often forgotten part of today’s modern medical professionals. Everything has been automated so much by computers that it can sometimes seem like you are rushed through a healthcare professional assembly line and out the door. When you first speak to your neurologist, make sure that he or she is easy to talk to and takes a bit of true time and care with you during the initial evaluation. Even the best of professionals should have a minimum standard of bedside manner that is comforting to a patient.
Education
Make sure that the neurologist is certified and that his educational background checks out. While the school he goes to might not tell you everything about his expertise, it will let you know if he’s truly certified and licensed in the things he claims to be.
Experience
Even a beginning neurologist can be a very good neurologist. Even the greatest ones had to start somewhere. You’ll be able to get a sense of his level of expertise by word of mouth recommendations and perhaps even online reviews. Other patients in the office might also comment on the doctor’s experience and how long they’ve been seeing him.
These three very important factors will combine together to give you an idea of the neurologist’s overall competence. A patient has a right to evaluate a doctor’s performance and change their mind about their specialist. If the neurologist in any way makes you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to search for other doctors. It’s your life and as the patient, you should be the boss of your own major and important healthcare choices.