Signs of Concussion After Fall? What to Do Next in New York, NY

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Signs of Concussion After Fall? What to Do Next in New York, NY

If you recently fell during a ride, hit your head, and are now experiencing a slight headache and feeling a bit groggy, it’s natural to feel concerned about the possibility of a concussion. Even without losing consciousness, your symptoms are worth taking seriously. You’re not alone, and you’re in the right place to learn what comes next.

This post will guide you through understanding the potential signs of concussion, which types of healthcare providers you might consider seeing in New York, NY, the kind of visits and procedures you may encounter, and an overview of the associated costs. Our goal is to give you clear, reassuring information so you can take confident next steps toward care.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in New York, NY

When dealing with symptoms like headache and grogginess after a head injury, there are several types of providers who could be a good first stop:

  • Emergency Medicine Physicians: These doctors work in emergency departments and are trained to quickly assess and treat serious injuries, including head trauma. They are the best option if symptoms worsen suddenly or become severe.
  • Neurologists: Specialists in conditions related to the brain and nervous system, including concussion evaluation and management. They provide more detailed assessments, especially if symptoms persist.
  • Family Practice Doctors: Generalists who can evaluate a wide range of health concerns and help decide if you need more specialized care.
  • Internal Medicine Doctors: Similar to family practice, these doctors manage adult medical care and can provide initial assessments and referrals.

Starting with any of these providers can help ensure you get the right care based on your symptoms.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Visit with an Emergency Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Emergency department visit with high level of medical decision making (CPT Code: 99285)

  • Purpose: This visit is for a thorough, urgent evaluation of your head injury to rule out serious issues requiring immediate treatment.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost in New York, NY: $536.67 (typically ranges from $233.72 to $839.61)

  • Provider Availability: This estimate is based on 1,879 providers in the New York, NY area.

  • Procedure: CT scan head or brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70450)

  • Purpose: A CT scan quickly takes detailed images of your brain to check for bleeding or fractures after a head injury.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $498.64 (typically ranges from $57.53 to $939.76)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 2 providers in New York, NY.

Visit with a Neurologist

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: A detailed neurological exam to assess your symptoms and brain function, ideal if your initial symptoms evolve or persist.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $247.25 (typically ranges from $165.50 to $329.00)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 532 providers in New York, NY.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70551)

  • Purpose: An MRI provides detailed brain images to look for subtle injuries not seen on CT scans.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $252.18 (typically ranges from $186.60 to $317.77)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 3 providers.

  • Procedure: MRI scan of brain before and after contrast (CPT Code: 70553)

  • Purpose: An enhanced MRI with contrast offers extra detail for diagnosis in complex cases.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $414.46 (typically ranges from $310.85 to $518.08)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 1 provider.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: A general health evaluation to assess your symptoms, provide initial guidance, and refer you if needed.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $225.02 (typically ranges from $168.77 to $281.28)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 734 providers.

  • Procedure: CT scan head or brain without contrast (CPT Code: 70450)

  • Purpose: Same as emergency CT scan—used if your doctor determines imaging is necessary to check for serious injury.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $211.87 (typically ranges from $143.75 to $280.00)

  • Provider Availability: 1 provider available for this procedure in family practice.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
  • Purpose: Evaluating ongoing symptoms, ruling out other medical causes of headache or grogginess.
  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $221.20 (typically ranges from $165.90 to $276.50)
  • Provider Availability: Based on 2,373 providers.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Think of the American healthcare pricing system a bit like shopping in a market where prices aren’t fixed and can vary widely.

  • The maximum cost you see is close to the “list price” doctors might charge. It’s like the asking price in a market before you try to negotiate or apply insurance discounts.
  • The minimum cost reflects something closer to what Medicare—the government insurance program—has agreed to pay for that procedure. Doctors often break even or sometimes lose money at this level.

These estimates give you a helpful range, but your final cost might vary depending on the provider, your insurance status, and any discounts offered.

Know Your Rights

One important protection you have is the Good Faith Estimate (GFE):

  • If you’re paying out-of-pocket (self-pay) without insurance, doctors are legally required to provide a GFE if you request one or if you schedule services at least 3 business days in advance.
  • The GFE outlines expected charges so you can plan financially and compare options before your visit.
  • Many providers offer self-pay discounts, especially if you ask upfront — don’t hesitate to ask: “What’s the cash price if I pay outright?”
  • You also have the right to request an itemized bill and to challenge any charges that seem incorrect or excessive. Ask for the CPT codes used for billing—they help you understand exactly what services you are paying for.
  • Many states have laws protecting patients from unfair billing, especially when uninsured.

Understanding these rights can empower you to make informed decisions and reduce surprises.

Taking action now is important for your health and peace of mind. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact an emergency department if symptoms worsen or a family practice, internal medicine, or neurology provider for an initial evaluation in New York, NY.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, when they started, any changes since the fall, and questions for the doctor.
  3. Discuss Costs: When booking, ask about the estimated cost and payment options. Remember, the costs here are estimates and can vary.
  4. Final Reassurance: Seeing a healthcare professional is the right step to get the care and answers you need. You don’t have to face this alone.

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 provides general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.