Signs of Concussion After Fall? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Houston, TX

concussionhead injuryfallsymptomsneurologyfamily practiceHoustonTXhealthcare costs

Signs of Concussion After Fall? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Houston, TX

If you recently fell during a ride and hit your head but didn’t lose consciousness, feeling a slight headache and grogginess afterward is understandably worrying. These symptoms can be signs of a concussion, and it’s natural to want to know the right steps to take next. You’re in the right place—this post will help guide you through recognizing possible concussion symptoms, the types of healthcare providers you should consider in Houston, TX, and what the initial visits and procedures might cost you if you’re paying out of pocket.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Houston, TX

When it comes to possible head injuries like concussions, there are several types of doctors who can evaluate your symptoms and provide care. Based on your signs, consider these options:

  • Neurology: Specialists who focus on the brain and nervous system. They are well-equipped to diagnose and manage brain injuries like concussions.
  • Family Practice: General doctors who can assess your symptoms, rule out serious complications, and might refer you to a specialist if needed. They provide broad care and are often the first stop.
  • Internal Medicine: These doctors manage adult health concerns and can evaluate your neurological symptoms and overall health.
  • Emergency Medicine: If symptoms worsen or you experience severe headache, confusion, vomiting, or other alarming signs, emergency doctors in ED settings provide immediate evaluation and urgent care.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Knowing the possible procedures and costs can help you feel more prepared when seeking care.

Visit with a Neurology Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A focused medical exam to discuss your symptoms, review your history, and evaluate your brain function.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $193.92 (typically ranges from $145.44 to $242.40)
    This estimate is based on 149 providers in the Houston area.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70551)
    Purpose: An imaging test to check for brain injury or bleeding that might not show on physical exam.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $992.87 (typically ranges from $209.74 to $1,776.00)
    This estimate is based on 2 providers in the Houston area.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A general check-up to assess your symptoms and decide if further tests or referrals are needed.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $195.94 (typically ranges from $146.95 to $244.92)
    This estimate is based on 511 providers in the Houston area.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) using at least 12 leads with interpretation and report (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: Heart rate and rhythm check, sometimes used to rule out other causes of headache or dizziness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $29.43 (typically ranges from $17.44 to $41.42)
    This estimate is based on 108 providers in the Houston area.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Comprehensive medical exam to evaluate your symptoms and overall health status.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.75 (typically ranges from $146.06 to $243.44)
    This estimate is based on 492 providers in the Houston area.

  • Procedure: X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: Chest X-rays are not common for concussions but may be ordered if there are trauma concerns involving the chest.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $53.17 (typically ranges from $36.32 to $70.02)
    This estimate is based on 20 providers in the Houston area.

Visit with an Emergency Medicine Provider

  • Procedure: Emergency department visit with moderate level of medical decision making (CPT Code: 99284)
    Purpose: If your symptoms worsen or sudden severe symptoms develop, emergency care provides immediate and thorough evaluation.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $521.70 (typically ranges from $146.06 to $897.33)
    This estimate is based on 512 providers in the Houston area.

  • Common Additional Procedures:

    • X-ray of chest, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046): $55.72 (range $36.41–$75.04)
    • Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93010): $34.14 (range $9.77–$58.51)
    • Complete blood count (CPT Code: 85025): $14.85 (range $9.10–$20.61)
    • Automated urinalysis test (CPT Code: 81003): $8.96 (range $2.64–$15.27)

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Healthcare pricing in the US can feel like a marketplace where prices vary widely depending on negotiation and billing practices. Here’s a simple way to understand the ranges you see:

  • The maximum cost is close to what providers might charge sticker price—like the “tag price” before any discounts or negotiations.
  • The minimum cost is near what Medicare, the federal insurance program, has negotiated to pay for the service. This is often a “break-even” point or sometimes even a loss for providers.

This range reflects the difference between billed charges and actual payment agreements, which explains why out-of-pocket costs can differ so much.

Know Your Rights

You have important rights when it comes to understanding and managing your healthcare costs:

  • Good Faith Estimate (GFE): By law, if you don’t use insurance to pay for your care, your provider must give you a written estimate of expected costs if you request one or schedule services at least 3 business days before your visit.
  • Many providers offer self-pay discounts if you ask upfront—don’t hesitate to inquire about the “cash price” when booking.
  • You can always ask for an itemized bill and question any charges that seem inaccurate, duplicated, or excessive. Ask for CPT codes and billing details to help understand charges.
  • Some states protect patients from unfair billing practices, especially for those without insurance. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself.

Taking care of your health after a head injury is important. Here’s what you can do now:

  • Schedule an Appointment: Contact a Neurology, Family Practice, or Internal Medicine provider in Houston to discuss your symptoms. If your symptoms worsen suddenly, go to the emergency room.
  • Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all symptoms you’ve experienced, when they started, and any questions or concerns you have.
  • Discuss Costs: When making your appointment, ask about estimated costs and payment options, especially if paying out-of-pocket. Remember, prices shared here are estimates based on local providers.
  • Reassure Yourself: Seeking medical advice is the right and responsible step. Professional evaluation can help keep you safe and support your recovery.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.