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    Last Updated: 03/06/2025

     
     
     
     
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    MediFind found 1 doctor with experience in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1. Of these, 1 are Advanced.

    Location:
    1 provider found
    Advanced in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1
    Neurology | Psychiatry
    Advanced in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1
    Neurology | Psychiatry

    Pali Momi Medical Center

    98 -1079 Moanalua Rd, Suite 480, 
    Aiea, HI 
     (9.1 mi)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Daniel Vekhter is a Neurologist and a Psychiatrist in Aiea, Hawaii. Dr. Vekhter and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1. His top areas of expertise are Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 3, and Headache.

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    Last Updated: 03/06/2025

    What is the definition of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1?

    Spinal muscular atrophy 1 (SMA1), also known as Werdnig Hoffmann disease, is a genetic neuromuscular disorder that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles (motor neurons). Without treatment, symptoms of SMA1 become apparent before 6 months of age and include worsening muscle weakness and poor muscle tone (hypotonia) due to loss of the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain stem. Feeding and breathing problems may also present. SMA1 is caused by changes (pathogenic variants also called genetic changes) in the SMN1 gene and is typically inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Diagnosis of SMA1 is suspected by symptoms and confirmed by genetic testing. SMA has been added to the list of recommended newborn screening tests in the United States, so that it can be detected prior to symptoms developing.

    When should I see a Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor near me?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor near me?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctors near me?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctors near me?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor near me?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor near me?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctors near me?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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