Why Am I So Forgetful? Understanding Your Symptoms in Dallas, TX

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Why Am I So Forgetful? Understanding Your Symptoms in Dallas, TX

If you’ve been noticing that you frequently forget where you put your keys, what you just said, or even get confused about the day or your plans, it’s natural to feel worried. These memory lapses can be more than just normal forgetfulness, especially if they begin to interfere with your daily life. You might be wondering whether this is just part of aging or if there is something more serious going on.

This guide is here to help you understand possible next steps. We’ll explain which types of healthcare providers in Dallas, TX, might be the right fit for your symptoms, what kinds of assessments they may perform, and what the estimated costs of those initial visits could be. You’re in the right place to get clear, helpful information to guide your path forward.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Dallas, TX

Based on your symptoms of forgetfulness and occasional confusion, several types of healthcare providers could be good starting points to help diagnose and manage your concerns:

  • Geriatric Medicine Doctor: Specializes in the health care of older adults, including memory and thought processing issues common in aging. They can evaluate cognitive changes and help with care planning.
  • Family Practice Doctor: A family practice physician is a generalist who diagnoses and treats a broad range of health concerns. They are often an excellent first stop for new or unclear symptoms and can coordinate further testing or referrals.
  • Neurologist: Neurologists focus on disorders of the brain and nervous system, including memory problems, confusion, and other cognitive difficulties. They are experts in evaluating brain function with specialized tests.
  • Internal Medicine Doctor: Internists manage adult health and can assess impaired thought processing, identify underlying causes, and provide care planning. They are also skilled at coordinating care for chronic conditions that may contribute to memory issues.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s an overview of typical procedures you might encounter during your first visits with each provider type in Dallas, along with estimated self-pay costs. This information can help you prepare financially and understand what these visits involve.

Visit with a Geriatric Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
  • Purpose: This is a comprehensive evaluation of your thinking and memory to identify problems and make a personalized care plan that addresses your needs.
  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Dallas: $428.46 (typically ranges from $321.35 to $535.58)
  • Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 2 providers in the Dallas area.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)
  • Purpose: Similar to the geriatric assessment, this visit focuses on evaluating your memory and thinking, and planning the next steps for treatment or referral.
  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost in Dallas: $427.44 (typically ranges from $320.58 to $534.30)
  • Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 1 provider in the Dallas area.

Visit with a Neurologist

  • Procedure 1: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: A focused exam to discuss your symptoms, conduct physical and neurological tests to understand your brain’s function.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $192.50 (ranges from $144.37 to $240.62)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 113 providers in Dallas.

  • Procedure 2: Evaluation of neuropsychological test, first hour (CPT Code: 96132)

  • Purpose: Detailed testing of your memory, attention, and thinking skills to help diagnose the cause of forgetfulness.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $204.98 (ranges from $153.73 to $256.22)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 16 providers.

  • Procedure 3: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)

  • Purpose: Thorough evaluation and planning to address cognitive difficulties.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $414.69 (ranges from $311.02 to $518.36)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 2 providers.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure 1: Assessment of and care planning for patient with impaired thought processing, typically 60 minutes (CPT Code: 99483)

  • Purpose: Comprehensive cognitive assessment and tailored care planning for memory issues.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $430.10 (ranges from $322.57 to $537.62)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 2 providers.

  • Procedure 2: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: A shorter office visit to discuss symptoms and review health concerns.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.08 (ranges from $145.56 to $242.60)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 508 providers.

  • Procedure 3: Assessment of emotional or behavioral problems (CPT Code: 96127)

  • Purpose: A brief assessment to understand any emotional or behavioral issues that may contribute to forgetfulness or confusion.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $7.30 (ranges from $5.47 to $9.12)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 13 providers.

The most important step you can take is to schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms thoroughly and guide you through diagnosis and management.

Here’s what you can do:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact one of the provider types listed above — a family practice doctor, neurologist, geriatrician, or internist — to discuss your forgetfulness and confusion.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, when they started, how often they occur, and any questions or concerns you have. This can help your provider understand your condition better.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking your appointment, ask the provider’s office about the expected costs and payment options. The cost estimates above are typical self-pay prices and might vary.
  4. Rest Assured: Taking this step shows you’re proactive about your health. Early evaluation can help you get the right care and peace of mind.

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 content is for informational purposes only 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.