Movement Disorder specialist (MDS)

A Movement Disorder Specialist is a neurologist who has completed two years of extra training (a fellowship) in movement disorders, a subspecialty in neurology. With this level of experience, a movement disorders specialist will be more familiar with the range of available PD medications, how they work, and their possible side effects. A specialist is also more likely to discuss the role of clinical trials.  They are experts at managing Parkinson's and related health conditions (PSP, MSA, ataxia, essential tremor etc.)

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General Neurologists:  Some neurologists treat many people with PD and may be knowledgeable about the disease, but most have diverse practices, of which PD represents only a small percent.

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Please note that the fastest way to see a specialist is through a referral from your primary care doctor or general neurologist.  Since there are many more people with Parkinson's than specialists, most people wait 4-6 months to get an appointment.