The nervous system interacts with many functions of the body necessitating a detailed evaluation history and examination which requires a great deal of time and patience for both doctor and patient. Only by getting to know the entire medical history and the whole person can an accurate assessment and treatment plan be achieved. Often tests such as a Brain Scan either by CT or MRI, or Nerve Conductions or Lumbar Puncture need to be performed. Patients must be given the understanding of why these procedures need to be done, what can be expected and what was found as soon as possible. Lines of communication between patient and doctor must be wide open.
Research is an important part of an academic medical practice.
That research can be as direct as a thorough chart review of similar cases looking for a common thread that may help treat the next patient or as complex as a blinded study where medication is given and neither doctor or patient know if it is placebo or active drug. Participation in any study must only occur after thorough explanation of the reason for the study, how it is to be performed, what are the risks and potential benefits and what long term care might be part of the study all written in the form of a detailed informed consent. Very few patients actually qualify for research protocols but all patients must have access to the latest information and be able to reach conclusions as to what care is best for them by a careful dialogue with doctor and staff. You will find them all informative and useful. This e-mail and attachments, if any, are intended for the designated addressee only.