Neurology professionals, what's one reason why a patient should consider seeing a neurologist?

Neurologists are versatile providers who address the medical management of seizures, headaches, weakness, numbness, walking problems, cognitive changes, and many other symptoms. Patients with these concerns are encouraged to first discuss their concerns with their primary care physician as access to neurologists remains limited due to shortages of subspecialty trained physicians. In many cases, primary care physicians are very capable of suggesting first line treatments for many common pathologies, including primary headache disorders such as tension headaches or migraine. I encourage patients to attempt a management plan proposed by the primary care physician prior to referral; though, if execution of this plan is inefficacious or if the primary care physician recommends a consult for a neurologist, I would then highly recommend a referral and that the patient follow up with a neurologist. We are happy to see any patient with neurologic symptoms needing additional diagnostic studies, therapeutic interventions, and second opinions.