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Our Team Approach to Evaluation and TreatmentIn This Section
 Patients at the Capistrant Parkinson's Center can expect a team approach to managing care. Our neurologists and nurse practitioner work closely with physical, occupational and speech therapies to evaluate and develop a treatment plan for each patient. We also offer evaluations and support to help with nutrition, psychosocial and community resources/social service needs. How we work with patientsNeurologist (MD) - performs initial evaluation and follow-up care. Neurologists establish the diagnosis, prescribe medications if necessary, and coordinate treatment plans. They also refer care to other therapies within the Parkinson's Center to build a plan that covers all of your needs. Nurse practitioner (CNP) - assists your doctor with evaluation and follow-up care. The nurse practitioner provides education and helps with any needs that arise between visits to the center. Registered nurse (RN) – the RN will be available if you need to call the center for assistance. The RN will assess your needs and help with a solution or pass information to the appropriate caregiver. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) – greets each patient who comes for an appointment with our physician or nurse practitioner. The CMA will gather your information and pass it on to your caregiver, helping to make each appointment meaningful and efficient. Physical therapist (PT) – works to improve walking, balance and endurance, and designs exercise programs to enhance mobility. Occupational therapist (OT) – helps to maximize independence, self-care and daily tasks through compensation strategies and adaptive equipment. Speech language pathologist (SLP) – works with you to improve voice volume, speech clarity and swallowing function. Recreational therapist (TR) – conducts exercise classes to improve balance, strength, endurance and flexibility. Social worker (SW) – provides support to patients and families by coordinate the care recommended by the health care team. Our social worker also assists with short-term counseling and planning. Psychologist (PhD or PsyD) – addresses how you cope with health issues. Understanding common responses people have to life changes, our psychologist offers insights and skills to help deal with grief, stress, depression or anxiety. Neuropsychologist (PhD or PsyD) – provides evaluation of brain functioning when health issues affect the brain. Our neuropsychologist can recommend ways to deal with cognitive changes.
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