Memory Problems Keep Forgetting? Next Healthcare Steps in Atlanta, GA
Memory Problems Keep Forgetting? Next Healthcare Steps in Atlanta, GA
If lately you’ve found yourself forgetting things more often—like where your keys are or appointments with friends—or losing track of your thoughts mid-sentence, it’s perfectly natural to feel concerned. These changes might feel unsettling, especially when it’s not something that used to happen. You might be wondering if this is just normal aging or something that needs medical attention.
This post is here to guide you through your next steps. We’ll explain which types of healthcare providers can help evaluate your memory concerns, what an initial visit might involve, and an overview of the typical costs you could expect in Atlanta, GA. You’re in the right place to start understanding what comes next and how to get the support you need.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Atlanta, GA
Based on your symptoms, there are a few types of doctors you might consider visiting first. Each of these providers has different expertise that can help evaluate memory problems:
- Geriatric Medicine Doctor: Specialists in the care of older adults, focusing on complex health issues including memory difficulties related to aging.
- Neurologist: Doctors who specialize in the brain and nervous system, able to assess and diagnose cognitive and memory disorders.
- Family Practice Doctor: General practitioners who handle a wide range of health concerns and can provide an initial assessment and guidance.
- Internal Medicine Doctor: Specialists in adult medicine who can evaluate cognitive symptoms as part of overall health care.
Each of these providers can offer valuable insight into what your memory problems might mean and suggest the appropriate next steps.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Visit with a Geriatric Medicine Doctor
- Procedure: Established Patient Office Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
- Purpose: This visit allows the doctor to review your memory concerns in the context of aging and manage related health issues.
- Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Atlanta: $178.13 (typically ranges from $133.60 to $222.66)
- Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 10 geriatric medicine providers in the Atlanta area.
Visit with a Neurologist
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Procedure: Established Patient Office Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
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Purpose: A neurologist will perform a detailed exam to identify possible causes of memory problems related to brain function.
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Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Atlanta: $196.77 (typically ranges from $147.58 to $245.96)
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Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 85 neurologists in the Atlanta area.
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Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
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Purpose: A more comprehensive evaluation to understand the level of cognitive impairment and create a personalized care plan.
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Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Atlanta: $437.20 (typically ranges from $327.90 to $546.50)
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Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 2 neurologists offering this service in Atlanta.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
- Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
- Purpose: Your family doctor can conduct a thorough cognitive assessment and help coordinate your care.
- Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Atlanta: $428.80 (typically ranges from $321.60 to $536.00)
- Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 1 family practice provider in the Atlanta area.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor
- Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
- Purpose: Internal medicine doctors can evaluate your memory issues as part of overall adult health management.
- Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Atlanta: $403.74 (typically ranges from $302.81 to $504.68)
- Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 1 internal medicine provider in the Atlanta area.
Your Recommended Next Steps
Taking action on your concerns is the best way to find peace of mind and get the help you need. Here’s what you can do now:
- Schedule an Appointment: Reach out to one of the providers listed above—whether a neurologist, geriatrician, family practitioner, or internist—to discuss your symptoms. Your choice can depend on your preferences and availability.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how often they occur, any patterns you’ve noticed, and any questions or worries you have. This will help your doctor understand your situation better.
- Discuss Costs: When you book your appointment, ask the provider’s office to confirm current costs and what might be covered by insurance, if you have it. The costs shared here are estimates for self-pay patients.
- Remember You’re Not Alone: Many people experience memory changes, and professional evaluation is the right step toward understanding what’s going on and how to manage it.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition.