Frequently asked
questions.

Initial appointments are the longest visits and are always conducted by a provider, typically a nurse practitioner. The visit may include a physical examination, a review of medical and family history, comprehensive cognitive testing, and orders for additional tests or imaging.

When a diagnosis can be made, it is typically discussed with Dr. Crane at the second visit. This gives the providers time to review the information and test results. Routine follow-up visits generally include abbreviated cognitive testing and are typically conducted by a nurse practitioner.

Referral requirements address patient screening and insurance requirements. Brain imaging, cognitive testing, and other required evaluations help the team determine whether TMDF is the appropriate practice and reduce delays in care. Review the referral form with your PCP for the required documents.

Patients are contacted on a first-come, first-served basis. New patients may be moved higher on the list when TMDF receives faxed documentation of a confirmed blood-based biomarker result. The clinic generally accepts p-tau217 results. Discuss testing with your PCP. Current patients are not offered an earlier appointment until the office receives results of previously ordered tests or scans.

TMDF does not currently accept patients whose insurance plans are out of network and cannot offer a self-pay option. Insurance changes for current patients are reviewed case by case. Contact your insurer or the provider’s office to confirm coverage before making insurance changes.

TMDF generally asks patients to live within the region. The clinic may consider patients who can travel to Knoxville for follow-up every four to six months and complete required imaging. Telemedicine availability may be limited by coverage and regulatory requirements. A local practice may better support medication monitoring and urgent needs.

Please maintain follow-up with your PCP after a major procedure or hospitalization before returning for a routine TMDF visit. Extended periods without an appointment may require restarting the referral process. Patients with excessive unexcused cancellations or missed visits may not be rescheduled. Contact the office when circumstances change.

TMDF can assist current patients with a limited range of documentation for a fee. Contact the office about the specific request. A PCP may also help coordinate documentation. Conservatorship or capacity matters may require an elder-law attorney or specialized neuropsychological evaluation.

Speak with their primary care provider. If a TMDF referral is appropriate, the provider should fax the completed referral form and required documentation. Community organizations listed below can also help with caregiver education and support.

Discuss your concerns with your PCP. Decisions about genetic or blood-based biomarker testing should be individualized and reviewed with a qualified healthcare provider, including possible medical, psychological, and insurance implications.