Neurology - Dignity Health - St. Elizabeth Community Hospital

A neurologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the brain, spine, nerves and muscles. If you are experiencing ongoing headaches, numbness, dizziness, weakness or memory loss, a neurology appointment may be helpful.

At St. Elizabeth Community Hospital, our neurology team commonly cares for:

• Cerebral palsy

• Dementia and mild cognitive impairment

• Epilepsy and seizure conditions

• Migraines and headaches

• Movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and dystonia

• Multiple sclerosis

• Stroke and other cerebrovascular conditions

Yes, neurologists help people prevent, treat and recover from stroke. We’re equipped to treat serious strokes at St. Elizabeth Community Hospital, with 24-hour emergency stroke care from a specially trained team. From stroke and transient ischemic attack assessments to advanced and rapid treatment, we’re here when you or your loved one needs us most. We also use telestroke technology to connect you and your doctor to additional stroke expertise.

Telestroke technology connects you, your family and your doctor to on-call stroke specialists at the Dignity Health Neurological Institute in Sacramento. During a telestroke appointment:

• Our advanced telemedicine robot with two-way video and audio is moved to your bedside.

• You and your doctor speak directly with a Dignity Health Telemedicine Network stroke specialist, who reviews your imaging and performs a consultation.

• The specialist and your doctor determine a personalized treatment plan for you.

Whether you need a referral to see a neurologist depends on your health insurance plan. Some insurance plans in California require a referral from a primary care provider, while others allow you to schedule directly with a neurology clinic. Check with your insurance provider or ask our neurology team before your visit to understand what your plan requires.

At St. Elizabeth Community Hospital, our specialists work together to care for you. Your care team depends on your unique needs and may include:

• Neurologists

• Neurosurgeons

• Neurointerventional radiologists

• Rehabilitation specialists

• Specially trained nurses

We’re committed to helping you receive an accurate diagnosis at St. Elizabeth Community Hospital. Your neurologist may recommend several tests or procedures to find answers, such as:

• Advanced brain and spine imaging tests

• Angiograms

• Blood tests

• Brain and spine tumor biopsies

• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)

The neurology team at St. Elizabeth Community Hospital is here for you with a wide range of diagnostic, treatment and rehabilitation services, including:

• Neurosurgery, including minimally invasive brain and spine surgery

• Brain cancer care

• Comprehensive epilepsy evaluations and treatment

• Diagnostic imaging tests and procedures

• Deep brain stimulation

• Movement disorder expertise

• Rehabilitation for neurological disorders

• Spine care

• Stroke care

Your care team can review your health history, lifestyle factors and medical screenings to better understand your symptoms and lifestyle. If you’re not sure where to begin, completing a health questionnaire is a simple and convenient place to start. 

Our stroke and spine health questionnaires can help you gain insight into your overall health and identify areas where you may benefit from additional support or care. Just answer a few short questions about your symptoms, lifestyle and personal goals. Based on your answers, we may recommend preventive care, treatment options or referrals if needed. Our goal is to provide clear guidance and help you take confident next steps toward better health.