Finding a doctor in AZ

[Bente]

My name is Bente, I'm 61. My husband and I retired and moved to Mexico 9 years ago. My symptoms started less than 2 years ago. I saw a neurosurgeon and had two discs replaced, at C3-4 and C5-6. In November this year he referred me to a neurologist specializing in motor neuron diseases in Guadalajara, and he diagnosed me with PLS. I feel confident his diagnosis is correct, everything he said just 'clicked' but they both said it's a difficult diagnosis to make and recommended I also see a neurologist in the US. We are planing a trip to Arizona this spring, to see the Grand Canyon and a Mariners spring training baseball game. Does anyone know of/recommend a neurologist anywhere in Arizona?

 

[lgelb]

Hi, Bente, welcome, moved your post here so hopefully you will get more responses since your question is more general. We have several AZ members who I'd imagine can chime in.

Best,
Laurie

 

[Teppo]

Hello
I receive my care at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix. Dr. Ladha is their neuromuscular diseases guy. He is well trained, has good academic credentials, and seems to be kind and compassionate. I feel I am in good hands with him.

I had an appointment with another neurologist in Phoenix, affiliated with an ALS Center, and was very disappointed with the interactions.

Buena suerte!

 

[Bente]

Thank you!

 

[Erika]

Hi Bente,
I have heard great things about the Barrow Neurológica Institute. Unfortunately they were not in my mom's insurance network, so she sees Dr. Levine in Scottsdale, AZ. We have only seen him twice, but both times he has taken the time to listen and provide us with info and show compassion when my mom broke down. We saw others that just didn't seem to care. Dr. Mortasavi from Banner is a definite no! Maybe ALS was not his specialty, but he also has no bed side manners and makes you feel like you're wasting his time. He thought my mom's symptoms were all in her head among other very disappointing comments and plana of action.

What a coincidence! My mom is in Guadalajara right now and just saw one the only 3 neurologists specializing in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases in the Jalisco. I wonder if you saw the same one. He was very knowledgeable from what I heard. Anyway best of luck find the correct doctor for you.
-Erika

 

[azgirl]

I have recieved excellent care from my doctor in Tucson. Doc Scherer is at University of Arizona banner hospital. Just make sure you see a neuromuscular specialist

 

[Bente]

Thank you Tempo, Erika and azgirl for your feedback. I should be able to get an appointment with at least one of the doctorspare recommended! And great to know who to avoid.
I saw Dr Jiménez in Guadalajara and really liked him, he asked all the right questions, and he asked about things I hadn't even realized were any kind symptoms.

 

[Erika]

My mom saw Dr. Carlos Zuñiga Ramírez. I believe he works along two others.
Hope you find the perfect doc for you. ¡Suerte!
-Erika

P.S. Now I'm wishing I was there in GDL, or in Puerto Vallarta having some ceviche tostadas by the beach!