By Ben Thayer, Co-Founder & Co-Owner · 3 min read

Who this is for: Written for patients with questions before their testing visit.

Key takeaways

  • A referral does not mean something is definitely wrong. Your provider wants a clearer picture.
  • Testing happens at your own provider's office and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
  • No needles, injections or radiation, and you can take breaks.
  • A neurologist interprets results, then your provider gets a copy, typically within 48 hours, or 7–10 days with labs.
  • Normal results do not mean your symptoms are not real.

Why and where

  • Why did my provider refer me? Your provider noticed symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, fogginess, memory problems or sleep changes, that may relate to a head injury and wants standardized information. A referral does not mean something is definitely wrong.
  • Where will I be tested? At your own provider's office. Braintree's technician comes to you.
  • Will Braintree treat me? No. We do testing only. Your provider stays in charge of your care.
A referral means your provider wants a clearer picture, not that something is definitely wrong.

The visit itself

An open journal with a pen resting on a blank page
A simple daily symptom log gives the treating provider a clear trend.
  • Does it hurt? No. There are no needles, injections or radiation. Some tasks are tiring, and you can take breaks.
  • How long will it take? Typically 30 to 60 minutes. Your provider's office will confirm.
  • Can someone come with me? Usually yes. They may wait outside during some tasks.
  • What if I'm having a bad day? Tell the technician. If you are very unwell, rescheduling may be better.
  • Can I stop during testing? Yes. Say so if you need a break or feel unwell.
  • Is it available in Spanish? Tell your provider's office your preferred language at referral.

Preparing

  • How should I prepare? Sleep normally, eat a normal meal, take usual medications unless your provider says otherwise and bring glasses, a medication list and symptom notes. See the full preparation checklist.
  • Do I need to wash my hair? Yes, the night before or that morning, with no oils, gels or sprays.
  • What about braids or a head covering? Let the office know ahead. The technician will discuss sensor placement privately and respectfully.
  • Can I drive myself? If you have dizziness, vision problems or slowed reactions, have someone else drive, and talk with your provider about driving.

Related in this series: Patients: What to Expect on Testing Day, Testing Day Preparation Checklist and Patient & Family Resource Center. For the full overview, start with our guide, Recovery, Work and Family.

Normal results don't mean your symptoms aren't real.

Results, cost and privacy

Physician in a white coat speaking with a patient
A neurologist interprets the report; the treating provider then receives a copy.
  • When will I get results? A neurologist interprets them first, before your neuro evaluation. Your provider then receives a copy, typically within 48 hours, or typically 7–10 days with labs, and your provider goes over it with you.
  • Is my information private? Yes. Results are part of your medical record and protected by privacy laws.
  • Will this cost me anything? Coverage depends on your situation. Ask your provider's office; our team can answer process questions at 813-709-3771.
  • What if my results are normal but I still feel bad? Tell your provider. Normal results do not mean your symptoms are not real.

If symptoms get worse before testing

Don't hold emergency symptoms for your appointment. Confusion, a seizure, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, vomiting more than once, hard-to-wake drowsiness or a worsening headache all mean the ER or 911 now.

Frequently asked questions

Who will see my results?

A neurologist interprets the report, and your referring provider receives a copy. It's shared with others only through authorized channels.

Can I reschedule?

Yes. Contact your provider's office as soon as you can.

We diagnose. You treat.

Mobile, physician-reviewed concussion and TBI diagnostics for Florida providers and their accident patients. Reports go to a neurologist ahead of the neuro evaluation; the referring provider then receives a copy for advanced imaging and treatment recommendations.

Book a 15-minute callRefer a patient

Or call 813-709-3771

Sources

This article is educational and is not medical or legal advice. If this is a medical emergency, call 911.