Can Someone Tell Me How To Find A Qualified Neurologist Specializing In PD? | MyParkinsonsTeam

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Can Someone Tell Me How To Find A Qualified Neurologist Specializing In PD?
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭

I was diagnosed in 2019. I am having a terrible time finding a good neurologist specializing in PD. What abilities, training should one have? What questions should I ask? I am seeing a movement disorder specialist now and that seems all he is interested in. Any suggestions? Thanks.

posted November 1, 2021
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Hi @A MyParkinsonsTeam Member
If you have PD, seeing a movement disorder specialist is a good thing, and you are doing that. They have specialized training in PD and other movement disorder and see and treat more people with PD than a general neurologist.

Do you have other conditions that you think should be treated? .If they are neurological conditions, the MDS should be able to help. If they are other conditions, you may need a specialist in your other conditions as well.

A neurologist may treat patients with any of more than 100 neurological conditions, including PD. A movement disorder specialist focuses primarily on PD and movement disorders, such as dystonia and tremors.

Having the right partnership with your doctor can make a difference, not just in managing your Parkinson’s symptoms but also in how supported you feel overall. It’s important for you to feel confident in that relationship and to have access to a treatment team that meets your needs.

Finding a good movement disorder specialist is a lot like hunting for a good dentist or a good mechanic: You need to ask around. Your primary care doctor or neurologist may be a good place to start. Or ask people in your support group, if you attend one, whom they see. You can also try contacting one of the national Parkinson's organizations.

In choosing a doctor, consider how much the doctor knows and how well the doctor listens. Remember, no two cases of Parkinson's disease are alike. Having a doctor who understands this, and who listens to you, is crucial.

With any Parkinson's doctor, you are a partner in your care. Educate yourself about PD. Parkinson's is different for everyone, and you can't get the best care unless you're specific about what you are experiencing. It's okay to ask why particular treatments or therapies are being recommended (or not), and it's okay to get another opinion.

The MDS Movement Disorders Specialist Finder can help you locate a doctor in your area.
excerpted from --> https://www.michaeljfox.org/news/movement-disor...

posted November 1, 2021
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Hi Partricia,
I hope you have managed to find a good neurologist.
As I looked back at my previous answer, I feel that a much better explanation is in order.

When you have Parkinson's, not just any type of neurologist will do. You must find a neurologist with extensive experience in Parkinson's or a MOVEMENT DISORDER specialist.

Perhaps you will find some of my other suggestions useful. Check out my story page. Just press my nose and it will pop up.

Love, Jeri
🌻

posted April 15, 2022
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you Frank. That is how I feel. I see my Dr. once every 6 months. He checks my movement and offers drugs. This is why I question "what is a movement disorder specialist supposed to do?" Are they all like this? Should I see another kind of Dr.? So many questions. Thank you for your comment.

posted December 22, 2021
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you all for your help and advice. It is truly appreciated.

posted November 2, 2021
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

The MDS only works with movement disorders like Parkinson's, MS. If you have anything else like migraine, tumors, etc., then that would be a general neurologist. Most doctors have their specialty these days & most of them do not drift away from that.

posted April 14, 2022

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