Signs of Concussion After Fall? Your Next Steps in Phoenix, AZ

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Signs of Concussion After Fall? Your Next Steps in Phoenix, AZ

If you recently fell during a ride and bumped your head, feeling a headache and some grogginess afterward is understandably concerning. Even without losing consciousness, these symptoms could signal a concussion or other head injury that should not be ignored. It’s completely normal to feel worried and unsure about what to do next.

This post is here to help guide you step-by-step. We’ll discuss possible healthcare providers you can consult in Phoenix, AZ, what kind of visits and tests you might expect, and the typical costs you might encounter if paying out of pocket. You’ve come to the right place to get clear, practical advice so you can take informed action for your health.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Phoenix, AZ

Based on your symptoms—headache and grogginess after a fall—there are several types of healthcare providers who can help evaluate whether you have a concussion or something more serious:

  • Neurologists: Specialists in brain and nervous system issues. They can provide expert evaluation and testing for concussion and related brain injuries.
  • Emergency Medicine Physicians: Doctors trained to handle urgent and unexpected health issues, including injuries from falls. If your symptoms worsen or you feel it’s an emergency, they are the place to go.
  • Internal Medicine Physicians: General adult doctors who can assess your symptoms, run preliminary tests, and guide you on whether further specialist care is needed.
  • Family Practice Doctors: General practitioners who diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. They are an excellent starting point and can refer you if more specialized care is required.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a summary of common visits and procedures related to concussion symptoms in Phoenix, with estimated self-pay costs. These estimates are based on multiple providers in the area.

Visit with a Neurology Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A comprehensive examination and evaluation to assess brain function and concussion symptoms. This visit helps your neurologist understand your condition and guide next steps.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $187.14 (typically ranges from $140.35 to $233.92)
    Provider Availability: Based on 165 neurologists in Phoenix.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70551)
    Purpose: A detailed imaging test that helps detect brain injuries that may not show on other tests. Often used if symptoms suggest possible complications.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $205.44 (ranges from $154.08 to $256.80)
    Provider Availability: 5 providers.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of brain before and after contrast (CPT Code: 70553)
    Purpose: An enhanced MRI to better visualize any abnormalities in the brain. Used when detailed imaging is critical.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $345.33 (ranges from $259.00 to $431.66)
    Provider Availability: 4 providers.

Visit with Emergency Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Emergency department visit with moderate medical decision making (CPT Code: 99284)
    Purpose: An urgent evaluation in the ER for potentially serious injury requiring immediate care. Recommended if you experience severe symptoms or worsening condition.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $465.61 (ranges from $141.49 to $789.73)
    Provider Availability: 384 emergency providers.

  • Procedure: CT scan head or brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70450)
    Purpose: A common imaging test to quickly detect bleeding or fractures in the brain after injury. Often used in emergency settings for head trauma.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $3,132.79 (ranges from $70.30 to $6,195.28)
    Provider Availability: 3 providers.

  • Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93000)
    Purpose: Measures heart function, sometimes ordered if your symptoms suggest other health issues. Not typical for concussion but may be part of comprehensive care.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $83.29 (ranges from $16.55 to $150.02)
    Provider Availability: 5 providers.

  • Procedure: Comprehensive blood test (CPT Code: 80053)
    Purpose: To check overall health and detect any abnormalities that might affect recovery.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $247.56 (ranges from $12.38 to $482.74)
    Provider Availability: 4 providers.

  • Procedure: Coagulation measurement, d-dimer quantitative (CPT Code: 85379)
    Purpose: To assess blood clotting ability, which can be important after head injury in some cases.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $169.75 (ranges from $11.98 to $327.52)
    Provider Availability: 2 providers.

Visit with Internal Medicine Physician

  • Procedure: Established outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Initial evaluation and management of your symptoms, possibly referring to specialists.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $189.36 (ranges from $142.02 to $236.70)
    Provider Availability: 438 providers.

  • Procedure: CT scan head or brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70450)
    Purpose: Imaging to check for brain injury if deemed necessary.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $224.66 (ranges from $46.13 to $403.20)
    Provider Availability: 1 provider.

  • Procedure: Chest X-ray, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: To rule out other injuries such as chest trauma after the fall.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $41.18 (ranges from $30.68 to $51.67)
    Provider Availability: 18 providers.

Visit with Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: General evaluation and management of concussion symptoms and other health issues.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.39 (ranges from $143.54 to $239.24)
    Provider Availability: 602 providers.

  • Procedure: Chest X-ray, 2 views (CPT Code: 71046)
    Purpose: To check for any injuries to the chest area after a fall.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $47.36 (ranges from $35.52 to $59.20)
    Provider Availability: 28 providers.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Healthcare pricing in the United States can feel like haggling at a market — prices vary widely depending on provider, location, and insurance status.

  • The maximum costs listed are just below what providers typically charge as their “full price” for the procedure. This is often higher than what most patients actually pay after insurance or discounts.
  • The minimum costs are a bit above the Medicare allowed amount, which is the standard rate negotiated for government health insurance. Providers sometimes accept this lower payment or break even at this level.

Keep in mind, your actual cost may fall anywhere in this range depending on your payment method and provider agreements.

Know Your Rights

If you are paying out of pocket without insurance, your healthcare providers are legally required to provide a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of expected charges upon request or when scheduling services at least 3 business days in advance.

  • The GFE gives you a clear idea of what you can expect to pay before your visit.
  • Many providers offer self-pay discounts if you ask ahead; don’t hesitate to inquire: “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”
  • You also have the right to request an itemized bill detailing each charge, including CPT codes and billing modifiers.
  • If you spot any incorrect or unreasonable charges, you can dispute them. Several states protect patients from unfair billing, especially for those without insurance.

Knowing your rights can empower you to advocate for fair prices and avoid surprises.

The most important thing is to see a qualified healthcare professional promptly to evaluate your symptoms. Here are your next steps:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a neurologist, family practice doctor, internal medicine physician, or go to an emergency room depending on symptom severity.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all symptoms you’ve noticed, how long they’ve lasted, and any questions you have.
  3. Discuss Costs: When making the appointment, ask about expected charges and if self-pay discounts are available. The estimates above can guide your conversations.
  4. Stay Calm and Take Action: Getting professional advice is the best way to protect your health and get peace of mind.

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 provides general information about concussion symptoms, healthcare providers, and estimated costs in Phoenix, AZ. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.