Below is a list of some frequently asked questions, but please feel free to call our office if you need additional information.
Question: How do we start the referral process? What information do you need?
Answer: You may refer a patient by phone or fax.
- Call 405.757.2430 and speak directly with our office scheduler
or
- Fax a referral letter or most recent office notes concerning the reason for consult with a copy of the patients demographic and Insurance information with the recent MRI/CT Myelogram report to FAX 405-757-6017.
The patient will need to bring the following:
- Plain X-rays, of involved area, within six months: A/P and Lateral
- Closed MRI, of involved area, within six months. May have CT Myelogram if patient has a pacemaker or is otherwise unable to have MRI. (An open MRI is generally not optimal for surgical decision making)
- Patients may bring additional records or studies done pertaining to the affected area, including old films.
Patients are to bring all films with them. Unfortunately, we will have to reschedule the appointment if the actual hard copy films are not with the patient, we do not accept studies on CD/DVD. If you have questions, or are unable to provide the requested information, please call us at 405.757.2430.
Question: How long will the evaluation take?
Answer: Each evaluation is different depending on the diagnostic needs of the referring provider and patient. If we have a good quality imaging study, we can frequently make a diagnosis or presumed diagnosis and start the process to healing at the first visit.
Question: What medical records do you need for my patient?
Answer: The last office note detailing the complaints and reason for referral is very helpful in performing the consultation.
Question: How do you determine which other testing, specialist consultation or program is needed for the patient?
Answer: We use the detailed medical information from the referral form, the history and physical exam findings during our evaluation, and our review of the imaging to develop a diagnosis or presumed diagnosis. Based on the diagnosis or diagnostic list to rule out, we recommend additional testing or evaluations with our colleagues to finalize our diagnosis and develop our treatment recommendations. Our staff will then schedule various appointments accordingly.
Question: How quickly can my patient be evaluated?
Answer: We always offer the first available appointment. While most patients can be evaluated within 7-10 days, we are able to do urgent evaluations sooner on a case by case basis.
Question: Do you do pain management or manage narcotic prescriptions for chronic pain?
Answer: We are not pain management physicians and do not manage chronic pain. If your patient needs these evaluations, we would be happy to make recommendations for referral.
Question: Do you do telephone consultations?
Answer: Due to the complexity of neurosurgical issues, and our desire to tailor the care of your patient to their needs, we do not believe telephone or curb side consults are appropriate. We would be happy to discuss our thoughts about current treatment options and strategies, but that should not be construed as a management recommendation.
Question: Do you have allied health providers? What role do they play in the care of my patient?
Answer: We are privileged to have experienced, caring and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioners helping to provide care for your patient. They routinely assist in the evaluation process, answer patient questions, refill prescriptions, assist in routine post-operative care, and assist in surgery among a host of other vital tasks to ensure your patient gets the most expedient, compassionate care.
Question: Do you perform emergency consultations?
Answer: We routinely do emergency evaluations in conjunction with an Emergency Room Physician. If you believe your patient is having a crisis, please call 911 or have them go to the nearest Emergency Room.