Can't Focus on Anything? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Chicago, IL

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Can’t Focus on Anything? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Chicago, IL

If you’ve been having a hard time focusing on anything—even when you try really hard—you’re not alone. It’s frustrating when your mind keeps wandering, distractions feel overwhelming, and even simple things slip from your memory. These struggles can make everyday tasks at work or home feel challenging, leaving you worried about what might be going on. You might be wondering if something is wrong or if others experience the same things. The good news is you’re in the right place to understand what to do next, who to see, and what typical costs look like for care in Chicago, IL.

This post will guide you through your possible next steps so you can get the attention and support you need. Understanding your options and what to expect can help you take action with more confidence and peace of mind.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Chicago, IL

Based on your difficulty focusing and other related concerns, there are a few types of healthcare providers in Chicago who can help evaluate your situation:

  • Psychologist, Clinical: Specializes in evaluating and treating mental health issues through therapy and diagnostic assessments. They can help understand emotional and cognitive challenges.
  • Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who can diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions, including emotional or behavioral problems. A good first stop for initial assessment.
  • Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who evaluates mental health and can prescribe medication if needed, along with providing therapy and diagnostic services.
  • Neurologist: Focuses on brain and nervous system disorders. They can evaluate cognitive or neurobehavioral issues that might affect your ability to concentrate.
  • Internal Medicine Doctor: This type of doctor manages adult health and can help assess and treat emotional or cognitive concerns alongside other medical conditions.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Below is a summary of common initial procedures these providers offer for evaluating attention, concentration, and emotional difficulties, including estimated self-pay costs in Chicago.

Visit with a Psychologist, Clinical

  • Procedure: Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation (CPT Code: 90791)
    Purpose: This detailed evaluation helps identify any mental health issues affecting your focus, like anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $261.84 (ranges from $196.38 to $327.30)
    This estimate is based on 102 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Exam of Neurobehavioral Status, First Hour (CPT Code: 96116)
    Purpose: A thorough cognitive and behavioral exam to understand how your brain is working and identify any areas affecting concentration.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $153.57 (ranges from $107.10 to $200.04)
    This estimate is based on 21 providers in Chicago.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Assessment of Emotional or Behavioral Problems (CPT Code: 96127)
    Purpose: A quick screening to check for any emotional or behavioral issues that might be causing your focus problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $14.39 (ranges from $6.12 to $22.66)
    This estimate is based on 24 providers in Chicago.

  • Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, Typically 60 Minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
    Purpose: An in-depth evaluation and planning session to understand and create a care plan for your cognitive difficulties.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $443.89 (ranges from $332.92 to $554.86)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers in Chicago.

Visit with a Psychiatrist

  • Procedure: Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation with Medical Services (CPT Code: 90792)
    Purpose: A medical and psychological evaluation that may include discussion of medication options and other treatments for focus issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $288.91 (ranges from $216.68 to $361.14)
    This estimate is based on 116 providers in Chicago.

  • Procedure: Assessment of Emotional or Behavioral Problems (CPT Code: 96127)
    Purpose: A brief assessment to identify emotional or behavioral factors affecting your focus.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $9.63 (ranges from $5.68 to $13.59)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers.

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Follow-up visits or consultations to discuss your symptoms and treatment progress.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $189.02 (ranges from $141.77 to $236.28)
    This estimate is based on 171 providers.

Visit with a Neurologist

  • Procedure: Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation with Medical Services (CPT Code: 90792)
    Purpose: A combined medical and psychiatric exam focusing on brain-related causes of attention problems.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $311.55 (ranges from $233.66 to $389.44)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers.

  • Procedure: Exam of Neurobehavioral Status, First Hour (CPT Code: 96116)
    Purpose: A detailed cognitive function exam to assess neurobehavioral status.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $155.92 (ranges from $116.94 to $194.90)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers.

  • Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, Typically 60 Minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
    Purpose: Thorough assessment and development of a care plan for thought processing issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $552.45 (ranges from $344.70 to $760.20)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established Patient Office or Other Outpatient Visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: General visit to discuss health concerns, including focus and memory issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $199.68 (ranges from $149.76 to $249.60)
    This estimate is based on 1099 providers.

  • Procedure: Assessment of Emotional or Behavioral Problems (CPT Code: 96127)
    Purpose: Brief screening for emotional or behavioral issues affecting concentration.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $11.75 (ranges from $6.11 to $17.39)
    This estimate is based on 14 providers.

  • Procedure: Assessment and Care Planning for Impaired Thought Processing, Typically 60 Minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
    Purpose: In-depth assessment and planning session for cognitive difficulties.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $423.39 (ranges from $317.54 to $529.24)
    This estimate is based on 7 providers.

Taking action now can help clarify what’s going on and start you on the path to better focus and well-being. Here’s what you should do next:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a psychologist, family practice doctor, psychiatrist, neurologist, or internal medicine doctor in Chicago. Consider which provider type feels right for you based on your symptoms and comfort level.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long they’ve been occurring, any factors that help or worsen them, and questions you want to ask. This will help you get the most from your appointment.
  3. Discuss Costs: When making your appointment, ask the provider’s office about pricing and payment options. The costs listed here are estimates for self-pay patients and may vary based on insurance or provider.
  4. Stay Positive: Remember, difficulty focusing can be caused by many treatable conditions. Seeking professional advice is a strong, empowering first step toward feeling better.

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 is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.