Serving Orlando and Central Florida

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Appointment Scheduling Questions

How do I schedule my first appointment?

You can schedule your first appointment by calling our office during business hours or by using the online appointment request form on our website. Our staff will call you to confirm your date and time.

How soon can I get an appointment?

We offer same‑day and next‑day appointments for urgent concerns and strive to see new patients within 1–2 weeks for routine neurological issues. Availability depends on your symptoms and provider schedules.

What should I bring to my first visit?

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications, relevant medical records (such as prior MRI or EEG reports), and a written list of your questions.

First Visit / New Patient Questions

What happens during a first neurology visit?

The neurologist will review your medical history, symptoms, and medications, then perform a focused neurological exam (checking strength, coordination, sensation, and reflexes). They may order tests or refer you for imaging or other studies.

How long is the first visit?

New patient visits typically last 45–60 minutes to allow time for a thorough history, exam, and discussion of your treatment plan.

Will I get a diagnosis on my first visit?

Some conditions can be diagnosed at the first visit, but others may require additional testing (MRI, EEG, blood tests, etc.). We will explain what is known and what further steps are needed.

Insurance and Billing Questions

Do you accept my insurance?

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and many private insurers. Please contact our office or check our website’s “Insurance” page to confirm coverage details.

What if I don’t have insurance?

We offer self‑pay options and can discuss payment plans or financial assistance programs with you. Please speak with our billing staff before your visit.

Why did I receive a bill after my visit?

Your bill may reflect your co‑pay, deductible, or coinsurance responsibility. If you have questions, our billing department can explain charges and help you verify what your insurance has covered.

TeleHealth Questions

Do you offer telehealth visits?

Yes, we offer secure video visits for many follow‑up appointments and certain new‑patient evaluations, depending on your symptoms and medical history.

What do I need for a telehealth visit?

You’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a front‑facing camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, and our patient portal app or a web browser link we send you.

Is telehealth as effective as an in‑person visit?

For many conditions, telehealth allows us to monitor your symptoms, adjust medications, and review tests. However, new or complex neurological issues may still require an in‑person exam and testing.

Diagnostic Testing Questions (EEG, EMG/NCS, MRI)

What is an EEG and why is it ordered?

An EEG (electroencephalogram) records the electrical activity of your brain. It is often used to evaluate seizures, epilepsy, and spells of altered awareness.

What is an EMG/NCS test?

EMG (electromyography) and NCS (nerve conduction study) measure the health of your muscles and nerves. They help diagnose conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or nerve‑root problems.

Do MRI scans use radiation?

No. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields and radio waves, not X‑rays. It is safe for most patients, though we ask about metal implants or pacemakers before the scan.

Treatment and Procedures Questions

What types of treatments do you offer?

We provide medical management, preventive therapies, injections (such as Botox for migraines or spasticity), coordination with physical or occupational therapy, and referrals to surgery or specialized centers when needed.

Do you perform surgeries?

Our neurologists do not perform brain or spine surgeries. If surgery is recommended, we coordinate with neurosurgeons or other specialists and remain involved in your overall care.

How often will I need follow‑up visits?

Follow‑up frequency depends on your condition, some patients need monthly visits initially, while others may return every 3–6 months once stable. Your neurologist will outline a schedule tailored to you.

Urgent Care Guidance

When should I go to the ER instead of waiting for an appointment?

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, severe headache with confusion or fever, loss of consciousness, or a seizure for the first time.

What should I do if I have a seizure at home?

Keep the person safe, turn them gently onto their side, do not put anything in their mouth, and time the seizure. Call 911 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, they have breathing difficulty, or they are injured.

Does your office handle after‑hours emergencies?

Our office phone is answered during normal business hours. For urgent neurological issues after hours, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department and notify our office as soon as possible afterward.

Conditions and Symptoms Questions

What conditions do neurologists treat?

Neurologists evaluate and manage conditions such as headaches and migraines, epilepsy and seizures, stroke and stroke risk, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, back and neck pain, and movement disorders.

When should I see a neurologist versus my primary care doctor?

Consider a neurologist if you have persistent or worsening headaches, dizziness, numbness or weakness, seizures, memory problems, tremors, or unexplained balance changes that your primary doctor wants you to have specialized assessment for.

Can you help with chronic pain related to nerves?

We evaluate nerve‑related pain (such as neuropathy, radiculopathy, or neuralgia) and can recommend medications, injections, physical therapy, or other interventions to improve comfort and function. If your pain condition requires narcotic medication or interventional procedures you should see pain management specialist.

Medication Questions

Can I get prescription refills from your office?

Yes. Routine refills can be requested through our patient portal or by calling during business hours. Please allow 3 business days for processing.

Are there side effects with neurology medications?

All medications can have side effects. Your neurologist will review likely side effects and signs that require immediate attention (such as rash, severe drowsiness, or difficulty breathing).

Can I change or stop my medication on my own?

Never stop or change neurological medications without speaking to your doctor. Abrupt changes can worsen symptoms or trigger seizures or withdrawal side effects.

Preparation for Visits and Tests

How should I prepare for a neurological exam?

Get a good night’s sleep, wear comfortable clothing, and bring a list of all medications with dosages. If you use mobility aids (walker, cane), bring them to your appointment.

Do I need to fast before my tests?

Most neurologic tests (EEG, EMG, MRI) do not require fasting, but some MRI exams may ask that you avoid eating for a few hours. We will send specific preparation instructions for each test.

What should I do before an MRI?

Inform us of any metal implants, pacemakers, pregnancy status, or severe claustrophobia. The MRI facility will ask you to complete a questionnaire that determines if you have any metal or device preventing you from doing MRI. Remove jewelry and avoid wearing clothing with metal zippers or snaps. Follow any instructions about medications or contrast.

Office Policies (Cancellations, Referrals)

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for at least 24–48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Missed appointments or late cancellations may be subject to a fee.

Do I need a referral to see a neurologist?

Some insurance plans (managed care and HMO plans) require a referral and /or authorization from your primary care physician. Please check with your insurance or contact our office so we can verify what is needed before your visit.

Can I bring a family member or caregiver with me?

Yes. We encourage a family members or caregiver to accompany you, especially if you have memory issues, mobility problems, or if you want support during discussions about complex diagnoses.

Privacy and Medical Records Questions

Is my medical information kept confidential?

Yes. All patient information is protected under HIPAA and privacy laws. We only share information with providers involved in your care or with your written authorization.

How can I access my medical records?

You can access your medical record at any time free of charge through our secure patient portal. If you request a printed copy of your records, we require a one week notice and will be a small processing fee depending on the volume of records requested.

Can I send my records from another doctor?

Yes. You can ask your previous provider to send your records to our office, or you can provide them at your appointment. We also accept electronic record transfers from many hospitals and clinics. You can download and print the record request form from our website to complete and send to your previous neurologist requesting records be sent to us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact and Support Information

What are your office hours?

Our office is typically open Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hours may vary by location. Please see our “Contact” page or call for the most up‑to‑date schedule.

How can I reach you between appointments?

You can send a secure message through our patient portal, call our office during business hours, or email our general contact address for non‑urgent questions. For urgent issues, please call 911 or go to the ER.

our service Areas

Serving Patients Across Central Florida

We see patients from across Central Florida, including Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Polk, and Volusia counties.

Kissimmee

Winter Park

Clermont

Lakeland

Sanford

Lake Mary

Melbourne

and surrounding areas.

Doctors at Brain and Nerve Clinic CTA

Get the Care You Deserve

If you’re still searching for answers or not improving, it may be time for a more precise approach.