Neurology Evaluation

A neurological evaluation is indicated when symptoms suggest nervous system involvement: headache (especially post-traumatic headache following a head injury or whiplash), dizziness or balance disturbance, cognitive complaints (memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mental fog), vision or hearing changes, radiating arm or leg pain (radiculopathy), numbness or tingling in the extremities, weakness, gait changes, or seizures. Early neurological evaluation is important because many of these symptoms suggest injuries that require specific treatment, and the documentation of neurological findings close to the accident date is more defensible than delayed evaluation.

Post-concussion syndrome documentation at MAIC uses a structured approach: the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale is administered at each visit to track the 22 standard post-concussion symptoms quantitatively; cognitive assessment with the MoCA documents the presence and severity of cognitive impairment; vestibular and oculomotor examination documents balance, gait, and eye movement abnormalities; and the neurological examination provides objective findings that support the clinical diagnosis. This structured, multi-modal documentation transforms subjective symptom complaints into an objectively documented clinical syndrome.

Neurologists are physicians specializing in the diagnosis and non-surgical management of nervous system conditions. Neurosurgeons are surgeons who operate on the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. In the PI context, the neurologist evaluates neurological symptoms, orders appropriate testing, and manages non-surgical neurological conditions. When surgical intervention is needed — spinal surgery for disc herniation with intractable radiculopathy, for example — the neurologist coordinates referral to a neurosurgeon or spine surgeon. MAIC's neurology team works closely with our orthopedic surgery and pain management divisions to ensure seamless escalation of care when indicated.

Yes. Neurological consultations at MAIC are covered under New York State No-Fault insurance for motor vehicle accident patients when medically indicated. Coverage includes the neurological evaluation, cognitive testing, vestibular assessment, and all associated documentation. We manage all No-Fault prior authorization and billing.

Yes. MAIC's neurologists are available for deposition testimony and provide preparation sessions with the referring attorney prior to deposition. Our neurologists are experienced in defending neurological diagnoses — particularly TBI, post-concussion syndrome, and radiculopathy — under cross-examination by defense medical experts. We can also serve as expert witnesses in cases where an independent neurological opinion on causation or permanency is needed.