Mom's doctor of 30 years retired and he had just joined an HMO, so we are left with a new first time doctor in and HMO that we do not belong to. I am not sure what type of doctor to look for but I would like someone who understands her dementia. We have tried asking friends to no avail. She has Medicare and a Private 2ndary carrier so I know the insurance aspect but how do i find the RIGHT DOCTOR???
Check with your local Alzheimer's Association. They may be able to point you in the right direction, as they normally have counselors who talk with many different people who are in the same situation you are. The counselors usually know who the various neurologists are that are most frequently used by AD patients. Also, if you are a member of an Alzheimer's support group you might ask the other members who they're neurologist is. If your Mom has a new general practitioner through her HMO he or she should be referring your Mom to a neurologist or gerentologist who understands dementia and makes that part of their practice. Go with her to her next appointment and make sure her new doctor does this!