How to prepare for an online neurosurgical consultation

A little preparation will help you use the consultation time to discuss your situation and your most important questions.

1. Briefly explain why you are seeking advice

Write down what is troubling you, when your symptoms began and how they have changed. Include any treatment you have already received and its results.

2. Prepare your medical documents

Gather the documents relevant to your consultation:

• medical reports and discharge summaries;

• test results;

• MRI and CT scans with their written reports, if available;

• records of previous operations;

• a list of your medications and dosages, and details of any allergies.

For MRI and CT review, prepare the complete examination in its original DICOM format, if available, rather than photographs of individual images only. Send the materials using the method agreed in advance.

3. Make a list of questions

Choose a few questions you would like to discuss first. For example:

• What do my test results mean?

• What options could we consider for the next steps?

• What information needs to be clarified?

• What should I discuss with my treating doctor?

  
  

4. Check your connection

When booking, specify your preferred format: a video consultation via Google Meet or Zoom, or an audio consultation via WhatsApp or Viber.

Check your internet connection, microphone and camera beforehand. Charge your device and choose a quiet place where you can talk comfortably. Check the date, time and time zone in your booking confirmation.

5. Get ready for the conversation

The consultation lasts 30 minutes. Keep your questions and medical documents nearby. If you wish, invite someone close to you to help provide information and take notes.

To book, select “Online neurosurgical consultation” in the “Services” section of the website.