How to Find the Best MS Doctors and Specialists Near You

How to Find MS Doctors Near Me

Getting diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) can feel overwhelming. But finding the right doctor is key to successfully managing this condition.

Where do you start your search for MS specialists? And what should you look for in an MS doctor? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why You Need an MS Specialist

MS is a complex autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system in unpredictable ways. No two cases of MS are exactly alike.

Treating MS requires specialized knowledge and experience. MS specialists are neurologists who have extensive training in multiple sclerosis care and treatment.

Seeing a general practitioner for MS follow-ups is not ideal. You need a doctor who understands MS inside and out.

The right MS specialist will:

• Accurately diagnose your type of MS
• Connect you to physical therapists, mental health professionals and other members of an MS care team
• Develop a customized treatment plan
• Recommend appropriate medications
• Monitor your progress and adjust treatment accordingly
• Answer your questions and address your concerns

Having an MS expert overseeing your care is crucial for living well with this condition.

How to Find an MS Specialist in Your Area

Here are some proven strategies for locating MS doctors near you:

1. Get Referrals From Your Primary Doctor

Your primary care physician likely works with specialists in your area. Ask your PCP if they can recommend any neurologists who specialize in MS.

Even if your PCP doesn't have a specific referral, they can point you to online directories, hospital referral systems and other local resources.

2. Check Hospital and Clinic Directories

Look for neurology or MS clinics at hospitals and medical centers near you. Visit their websites or call to ask if they have MS specialists on staff.

Larger hospitals, university medical centers, and major clinics are more likely to employ dedicated MS doctors.

3. Search the "Find a Doctor" Tool on MS Group Websites

Reputable MS nonprofits like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America offer online "find a doctor" searches.

Just enter your location and search parameters to get a list of MS specialists in your area.

4. Look on Regional MS Center Websites

Major cities generally have dedicated MS centers with teams of neurologists skilled in MS care.

For example, searching "[your city] MS center" will typically bring up clinic names you can explore.

5. Check Directories of MS Specialists

There are national directories that exclusively list doctors who specialize in MS like the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America's MS Clinician Directory.

6. Join Online MS Forums

Connecting with other MS patients online can help you find doctor recommendations. Post in forums asking members to share their MS specialists.

7. Consider Large MS Clinics Outside Your Area

Can't find an MS specialist locally? Expand your search to major MS clinics within reasonable driving distance. They may be worth the drive.

Combining several of these search strategies will give you a solid list of MS doctors to consider.

Choosing the Right MS Doctor For You

Once you have a list of potential MS specialists, how do you pick the right one?

Narrow down your options by asking these key questions:

Are They Board Certified in Neurology?

Confirm your doctor is board certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. This rigorous certification ensures they have the training and skills to treat complex neurological conditions.

Do They Have MS Fellowship Training?

Look for doctors who have completed fellowship training specifically focused on MS. This intensive 1-2 year program goes beyond neurology residency to provide advanced MS expertise.

How Many MS Patients Do They Treat?

Choose specialists who see a high volume of MS patients. Experienced doctors will be more knowledgeable about treatments and managing symptoms.

What is Their MS Treatment Approach?

Make sure their treatment philosophy aligns with your preferences. Some doctors take a conventional approach using medications while others integrate functional/alternative medicine.

Do They Have Hospital Privileges?

Having privileges at major hospitals means your doctor can easily admit and treat you if needed. This provides continuity of care.

Do They Collaborate With Other Providers?

Find a doctor who works with physical therapists, mental health providers, nutritionists and other professionals to build a comprehensive care team.

Is Their Office Accessible?

Consider logistics like office location, parking accessibility, exam room size, availability of handicap bathrooms, etc.

What Are Patients Saying?

Read online reviews and talk to current patients to learn about their experiences. This provides valuable insight into the doctor's care approach.

Do You Feel a Personal Connection?

Most importantly, choose an MS doctor you feel comfortable with and can build rapport with. You'll be working closely together.

Researching these factors will help you find the right specialist.

Questions to Ask an MS Doctor

Meeting with a prospective doctor enables you to interview them and determine if they're a good fit. Here are key questions to ask during a consultation:

How many years have you treated MS patients?

Look for at least 5-10 years focused on MS for extensive experience.

What's your approach to MS treatment?

See if their philosophy and protocols align with your treatment goals.

Which MS medications do you commonly prescribe?

Make sure they have experience with the latest disease-modifying therapies.

How do you monitor patient progress and response to treatment?

They should use MRIs, symptom tracking tools, regular visits, and other metrics.

Will you coordinate my care with other providers?

Confirm they will collaborate with your primary doctor, therapists, and other specialists.

Do you take my insurance?

Verify they accept your specific health insurance plan and coverage details.

How accessible is your office for patients with disabilities?

Assess the accommodations and ease of use for your individual needs.

How soon can I get appointments when issues arise?

Flare ups may require quick access - find out their scheduling flexibility.

Can I reach you or an on-call doctor after hours?

24/7 access provides peace of mind for sudden MS symptoms.

By the end of the visit, you'll get a feel for how well you mesh with the doctor.

Red Flags to Watch For

When interviewing MS specialists, be alert for any red flags like:

• Lack of board certification in neurology
• Minimal experience treating MS patients
• Overly promotes alternative therapies without conventional medicine
• Spends very little time discussing your medical history
• Seems difficult to reach for urgent issues
• Makes you feel rushed or doesn't answer questions
• Office has accessibility barriers
• Doesn't take your insurance

One or two yellow flags may be fine. But multiple issues should give you pause when choosing an MS clinician.

Preparing For Your First Appointment

Your first visit with an MS specialist is key. Being organized and having the right information sets the stage for an effective doctor-patient relationship.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

• Medical records - Have your medical history, diagnostic test results, and any past MRIs or CT scans sent to the new doctor.
• Medications - Provide a list of all medications, vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter drugs you currently take.
• Symptom tracker - Keep a log of your MS symptoms leading up to the visit.
• Questions - Write down any questions you have so you remember to ask them.
• Insurance card - Bring your insurance card to verify coverage and accurately bill services.
• ID - Have a photo ID and insurance card ready to present.
• Referral - Obtain any required referrals from your primary doctor beforehand.

Questions They May Ask You

Be prepared to answer questions about:

• Your detailed medical history
• When your MS symptoms started
• Specific symptoms you experience
• Impact of MS on your daily activities
• If other family members have MS
• Diagostic tests you've had done
• Your treatment history
• Other medical conditions you have
• Any recent infections

Having key details at your fingertips helps the doctor make an informed assessment.

What Happens at Follow-Up Visits

After your initial consult, youll see your MS doctor regularly to monitor your condition and adjust treatments accordingly.

Typical Follow-Up Visit Activities

• Physical exam and assessment of your symptoms
• Review any new or worsening symptoms
• Discuss your response to current medications
• Consider changes to your treatment plan
• Schedule any needed lab work or imaging
• Provide education on lifestyle strategies
• Address questions and concerns
• Set goals for your MS management

How often you need follow-up appointments depends on your disease severity and current treatment protocol. Many patients see their MS doctor every 3-6 months.

Maximizing Your Appointments

To get the most out of your visits:

• Arrive prepared with updates and questions written down
• Bring a list of current medications and supplements
• Mention any major life events like added stress
• Discuss upcoming travel or health appointments
• Share your treatment goals and expectations
• Take notes during your appointment
• Clarify next steps before leaving

Being engaged and providing thorough information ensures you and your doctor are on the same page.

Seeking a Second Opinion

Getting a second opinion from another MS specialist is perfectly acceptable. In fact, its often recommended.

Reasons to consider a second opinion:

• If you received an initial diagnosis but have lingering doubts
• To confirm your treatment plan approach is appropriate
• To investigate alternative treatment options
• If your condition is not improving as expected
• For peace of mind in choosing a doctor

A reputable MS doctor will not be offended if you want to consult with another specialist. Getting a second opinion can provide added insight.

Switching MS Doctors

Over time, you may find you want to switch to a different MS specialist for any number of reasons. This process can feel daunting, but these tips will make it smoother:

• Obtain copies of your medical records to share with the new doctor.
• Ask your current doctor to forward MRI images to the new office.
• Clarify a plan for managing prescriptions during the transition.
• Have test orders transferred to the appropriate facilities.
• Inform other members of your care team like PTs of the change.
• Make sure the new doctor accepts your insurance.
• Provide plenty of lead time when scheduling the first appointment.

Changing physicians is very common. With a coordinated approach, youll stay on track during the switch.

The Bottom Line

Finding a knowledgeable MS specialist you connect with is critical for living well with multiple sclerosis. Use plentiful resources are available to identify experienced MS doctors in your locale.

Vet candidates thoroughly and schedule consultations to get a feel for potential doctors. Establishing a strong relationship with your MS physician provides the foundation for navigating treatment smoothly.

With an excellent MS doctor overseeing your care, you can have confidence you are getting the very best guidance and therapies tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.