Frequently asked questions

Showing 15 questions

• How soon can I be seen as a new patient?

  In most cases, new patients can be seen the same day. Call us, and if your symptoms are getting worse, tell us so we can prioritize your visit.

  Appointments

• Do I need a referral?

  Many plans do not require one, but most HMO plans do. We will check for you when you request an appointment.

  Appointments

• Will I see Dr. Mignucci or a physician assistant?

  It depends on your needs. Brian Norris, PA-C, and Heather Baxter, PA-C, have worked with Dr. Mignucci for 10 to 20 years and review every plan with him. You can always ask to see Dr. Mignucci.

  Appointments

• Should I see a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic spine surgeon?

  Both treat the spine. A neurosurgeon is also trained in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which matters when your symptoms involve numbness, weakness, or nerve pain. Most patients we see never need surgery.

  Appointments

• Do you offer second opinions?

  Yes. Bring your imaging and the recommendation you received. We will give you an honest view, including when surgery is not needed.

  Appointments

• What if my symptoms get worse before my visit?

  Call us and tell us what changed. If you have sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or the worst headache of your life, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

  Appointments

• Which insurance plans do you accept?

  We accept all major insurance plans. Plans change, so Tracie Baker, our patient financial counselor, verifies your benefits before your first visit and lets you know about any co-pay ahead of time.

  Insurance and billing

• What if I don’t have insurance?

  Tracie Baker, our patient financial counselor, can give you self-pay pricing and an estimate before your visit.

  Insurance and billing

• Will I know the cost of surgery ahead of time?

  Yes. Before scheduling, you will get an estimate based on your benefits and a chance to ask questions.

  Insurance and billing

• Can I get my MRI here?

  Often, yes. Windhaven Medical Imaging is in our building, and imaging can frequently be done the same day as your visit.

  Imaging

• What if I already had an MRI somewhere else?

  Bring the disc and report, or ask the imaging center to send them to us. We review the actual images, not just the report.

  Imaging

• Where is surgery performed?

  Many procedures are done at Windhaven Ambulatory Surgery Center, in our building. Larger surgeries are done at a nearby hospital, and we will tell you which one before you schedule.

  Surgery and recovery

• How long will recovery take?

  It depends on the procedure. After many outpatient spine procedures, patients go home the same day. You will get a written recovery plan.

  Surgery and recovery

• How do I fill out new patient forms?

  We will have them ready for you at the front desk. Please arrive about 20 minutes early to complete them.

  Records and forms

• How do I get my medical records?

  Call us and we will send you a records release form.

  Records and forms