Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
Do I need a referral to see a neurosurgeon at NMC?
Because of the specialized nature of our practice, most of our patients are referred by their primary care physician or another specialist. However, we are available to most patients who desire a neurosurgical evaluation. We recommend contacting your insurance carrier first to find out if a referral or prior authorization is required under your plan.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call our office at 619.297.4481. Our scheduling team will help match you with the right provider based on your condition and location preference (San Diego or La Mesa).
Can I request a specific surgeon, or will I be assigned one?
As a referral-based practice, patients are typically referred to a specific provider. However, if you have a preference for a particular surgeon, we're happy to accommodate if possible.
What if I don't have my imaging yet – can I still schedule?
Imaging (such as an MRI or CT scan) is required before we can schedule your appointment, as it allows our surgeons to properly evaluate your condition ahead of your visit. If you don't yet have imaging, please reach out to your referring physician or primary care doctor to have this arranged.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your insurance card(s), a valid photo ID, and any MRI, CT, or X-ray images on a CD if you've had prior imaging – see our "About Your Visit" page for details.
How long will my first appointment take?
This can take anywhere from 30-45 minutes, depending on the provider and the questions you may have. Your scheduler can give you a more specific estimate based on which provider you're seeing.
Can a family member or caregiver come with me?
Yes, you're welcome to bring a family member, caregiver, or friend to your appointment – whomever you're most comfortable having with you. Given the nature of our practice, we do ask that young children stay home if possible.
Do you treat pediatric patients, or adults only?
We are an adults-only practice and do not treat pediatric patients.
Cost & Insurance
Will my insurance cover a visit?
We are contracted with most major insurance companies. To confirm your coverage, please contact your insurance provider directly, or reach out to our authorizations and referrals department at 619.297.4481 ext. 108.
What if I'm out-of-network – can I still be seen?
Yes, we're happy to see out-of-network patients. Payment is due at the time of service, and as a courtesy, we'll bill your insurance on your behalf and ask that they reimburse you directly. Please note that we're not able to confirm what your insurance will reimburse, so we recommend confirming your out-of-network benefits with your insurance provider before your visit.
Do you offer payment plans?
We're happy to work with you regarding your share of cost for surgery and can do so on an individual basis. If your insurance requires a copay, that is due at the time of service. We do not offer payment plans for office consultations or follow-up visits.
What happens if my insurance requires prior authorization and it's still pending?
We typically do not schedule your appointment until prior authorization has been approved.
How do I pay my bill?
You can pay online through our secure bill pay portal, linked at the top of every page on our website.
Treatment & Surgery
What conditions do you treat?
Our surgeons treat a broad range of brain, spine, and peripheral nerve conditions, including cervical and lumbar disc disease, brain tumors, trigeminal neuralgia, pituitary tumors, and peripheral nerve disorders. Visit our "Conditions Commonly Treated" page for a full list.
Will I need surgery?
Not necessarily. Many patients are evaluated and managed without surgery. Your provider will walk you through all appropriate options – surgical and non-surgical – based on your specific diagnosis and imaging.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
At your consultation, your provider will perform an exam and review your imaging studies. From there, they'll determine the best path forward for your treatment.
How soon after diagnosis would surgery typically happen, if needed?
This can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the surgeon's schedule. Our providers maintain reserved OR time, which helps make scheduling more efficient.
What are the risks of neurosurgery, and how are they explained to me?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Your provider will discuss the specific risks with you once your surgery type has been determined. You will also have a pre-operative visit within 30 days of surgery to review what to expect and answer any remaining questions.
What if I want a second opinion, or need a copy of my records/imaging for one?
We welcome second-opinion consultations and seeking one won't hurt our feelings. You are responsible for your imaging – if you bring a CD with you, we will return it to you. For medical records, you'll need to complete a medical records release form.
Recovery
What does recovery look like, including hospital stay and returning to normal activities?
Recovery varies significantly depending on the procedure and individual health factors. Some procedures are outpatient, others involve an overnight stay, and more complex cases may require a few days in the hospital. Your surgeon and care team will give you a personalized recovery timeline covering hospital stay, driving, returning to work, exercise, physical therapy, and follow-up visits.
Who can I talk to if I have questions between appointments?
You're always welcome to reach out to your doctor's practice manager, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant with questions about your condition, test results, or treatment plan.
Who do I call if I have concerns after hours or on a weekend?
You can call our office at 619.297.4481. We have physicians on call after hours and on weekends to assist with urgent concerns.
Locations & Logistics
Where are your offices located?
We have two locations: San Diego (3750 Convoy St., Suite 301) and La Mesa (5565 Grossmont Center Drive, Sharp Grossmont Hospital – Neuroscience Building). Visit our Locations page for maps and directions.
Which hospitals do your surgeons operate at?
Our surgeons hold privileges at Sharp Memorial Hospital, Scripps Mercy Hospital, Sharp Grossmont Hospital, and Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center.
Is there parking at your offices?
Yes. Our Convoy Street office offers free parking in a horseshoe-shaped lot around the building. Our La Mesa office, located on the campus of Sharp Grossmont Hospital, has a parking structure next to the Brady Neuroscience Clinic. Parking is free for the first 60 minutes, and $4.00 for stays between 1-4 hours.
Do you offer telehealth appointments?
We do not currently offer telehealth appointments.