You probably have a long list of doctors that you visit for a variety of reasons- yearly physicals, toothaches, and other health upkeep. But you probably aren’t expecting to get into a car accident, and therefore don’t have a doctor who specializes in these injuries on your list. If you’ve been in an accident, you may be overwhelmed with follow up and not know where to start looking for a chiropractor in Lithia Springs. Below is a guide to finding the right specialist for you after suffering car accident injuries.
Skip Your Primary Care Physician
While you may love your primary care doctor, and they’re likely a great physician, they are not necessarily the best choice for treating car accident injuries. Their focus will be on internal medical conditions rather than injuries to the spine, bones, brain, etc. Most likely, a PCP will refer you out to a specialist who deals with these types of things. This can delay your treatment further as you schedule a second appointment.
Additionally, visiting a specialist can be a big help in any future claims or litigation, as they also routinely fill out medical records for insurance companies. A large part of your case’s value will come from how thorough the records are. Primary care physicians do not typically work with insurance claims and therefore do not always document medical problems in the detail necessary. Instead, a car accident chiropractor in Lithia Springs will be able to complete these documents properly.
Don’t Guess What Injuries You Have
After your accident, you may identify some symptoms that hint at where you’ve been injured. It can be tempting to pick your specialists based on this; if you have a headache, you may seek out an Atlanta neurologist, for example. While your symptoms will be helpful in diagnosing your injury, car accidents can be sneaky. What feels like a headache may actually be related to a back injury, or a runny nose may indicate brain damage. You should look for a facility that offers holistic care and a range of practices.
Most accident-related injuries are to the back and neck, making chiropractors a common choice as they deal with both the spine and your overall health. However, don’t look for a solo chiropractor in Lithia Springs, but instead, seek one who works as part of a larger team. Access to neurologists, orthopedists, physical therapists, and more give chiropractors the ability to treat injuries in a holistic way by working together with these specialists. Rather than being referred out to a web of different doctors, a multidisciplinary team can be more efficient and more informed.
Look for Diagnostic Capabilities
No matter how serious your symptoms are, after a car accident, you will likely undergo a series of diagnostic scans. You may have x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and a number of other tests done. These serve as records for your claim as well as allow you to identify any injuries as soon as possible and begin treatment. While some doctor’s offices have the equipment necessary to perform these tests, it is also common to be referred out to special imaging centers.
If possible, find a physician who has an imaging center onsite, the equipment to perform these scans, and a radiologist trained in reading the results. This can cut down on time, miscommunications, and is one less party you need to involve in your insurance battle.
Talk To Your Doctor About Pre-Existing Conditions
It is a misconception that a pre-existing illness or injury may hurt your case, but the truth is it can actually help. When your doctor understands your health history, they can better use that to understand what was exacerbated or caused by your car accident and include that in your medical records.
You are also required to disclose pre-existing injuries as a part of court cases and insurance claims, so your doctor may be asked if you discussed them. When a doctor is experienced in accident claims, they will ask for this information upfront.
Seek Comprehensive Care for Accident Victims
If you are in need of a car accident chiropractor in Lithia Springs, AICA Lithia Springs may be a great fit for you. With a team of specialists in multiple disciplines, an onsite imaging center, and expertise in dealing with insurance claims, we are a one-stop shop for accident victims. Not only are we experienced at diagnosing and treating common injuries, but also at reporting this information and creating documentation fit for a court case. If you have recently been in an accident, contact AICA Lithia Springs today for expert medical care.