Why Do I Keep Forgetting Things? Your Next Healthcare Steps in The Woodlands, TX

memory lossforgetfulnesshealthcare stepsThe Woodlands TXneurologypsychiatrygeriatric medicineinternal medicine

Why Do I Keep Forgetting Things? Your Next Healthcare Steps in The Woodlands, TX

Lately, you’ve noticed that you keep forgetting things—like where you put your keys or what you were about to do—and you sometimes get confused about what day it is. This is something new and it’s starting to bother you. It’s completely understandable to feel concerned when your memory doesn’t seem as sharp as before. You might be wondering if this is just normal forgetfulness or if it’s a sign of something that needs medical attention.

This post is here to help you understand potential reasons behind your symptoms, who you can see for a proper evaluation, and what the typical costs might be for these services in The Woodlands, TX. If you are worried about your memory, you’ve come to the right place to learn about your next steps.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in The Woodlands, TX

If you are experiencing memory problems and confusion, there are a few types of doctors that could be a good starting point for evaluation:

  • Neurologists: Doctors who specialize in brain and nervous system issues. They can assess if memory problems are related to neurological conditions such as mild cognitive impairment or other brain-related disorders.
  • Psychiatrists: Specialists in mental health who can evaluate if memory issues might be connected to mood, anxiety, or other psychological factors.
  • Geriatric Medicine Specialists: Doctors focusing on health care of older adults. They can assess complex health issues including memory changes that occur with aging.
  • Internal Medicine Doctors (Primary Care Physicians): General doctors who manage overall health and can help start the process with initial evaluations and referrals if needed.

Starting with one of these providers can help you get the right diagnosis and care tailored to your symptoms.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Below are the common procedures these providers might perform, along with estimated self-pay costs in The Woodlands, TX:

Visit with a Neurologist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A thorough consultation where the neurologist discusses your symptoms and medical history to understand the nature of your memory issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $196.75 (typically ranges from $147.56 to $245.94)
    This estimate is based on 34 providers in The Woodlands area.

  • Procedure: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
    Purpose: Detailed evaluation of thinking and memory abilities to create an individualized care plan.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $428.02 (typically ranges from $321.01 to $535.02)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers in the area.

  • Procedure: Exam of neurobehavioral status, first hour (CPT Code: 96116)
    Purpose: In-depth testing to assess cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $153.15 (typically ranges from $114.86 to $191.44)
    This estimate is based on 1 provider.

  • Procedure: Evaluation of neuropsychological test, first hour (CPT Code: 96132)
    Purpose: Detailed review and interpretation of tests that explore memory and cognitive skills.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $204.30 (typically ranges from $153.23 to $255.38)
    This estimate is based on 3 providers.

Visit with a Psychiatrist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Discuss your symptoms to evaluate possible mental health conditions affecting memory.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $182.88 (typically ranges from $137.16 to $228.60)
    This estimate is based on 16 providers.

  • Procedure: Evaluation of neuropsychological test, first hour (CPT Code: 96132)
    Purpose: Assessment of cognitive function related to psychological health.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $208.16 (typically ranges from $156.12 to $260.20)
    This estimate is based on 1 provider.

  • Procedure: Administration of psychological or neuropsychological test, first 30 minutes (CPT Code: 96136)
    Purpose: Conducting tests that measure memory, focus, and cognitive skills.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $63.55 (typically ranges from $47.66 to $79.44)
    This estimate is based on 1 provider.

Visit with a Geriatric Medicine Specialist

  • Procedure: Initial hospital care with moderate level of medical decision making, if using time, at least 75 minutes (CPT Code: 99223)
    Purpose: Initial detailed evaluation focusing on age-related memory or cognitive concerns in a hospital setting or thorough office exam.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $270.67 (typically ranges from $203.00 to $338.34)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor (Primary Care)

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Basic assessment of your memory concerns and overall health; may order tests or refer you to specialists.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $199.57 (typically ranges from $149.68 to $249.46)
    This estimate is based on 155 providers.

  • Procedure: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
    Purpose: Comprehensive evaluation and care planning when memory or thinking ability is affected.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $413.36 (typically ranges from $310.02 to $516.70)
    This estimate is based on 1 provider.

If you are worried about your increasing forgetfulness and confusion, the best next step is to consult a healthcare professional who can properly evaluate your symptoms.

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a neurologist, psychiatrist, geriatrician, or internist in The Woodlands, TX to begin your evaluation.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how often they occur, how long they’ve been happening, and any questions you want to ask.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking your appointment, ask about costs upfront. The estimates here can give you a general idea, but actual fees may vary.
  4. Stay Positive: Remember, many causes of memory problems are treatable or manageable. Seeking professional advice is a strong and important step toward better health.

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 information is provided to help guide your healthcare decisions and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.