Out-of-Town Patients: How to Get Thyroid RFA with Dr. Parikh
Patients fly in from across the country to be treated by one of the most experienced thyroid RFA specialists in the United States. Here's how we make it easy.
Why Patients Come from Across the Country to See Dr. Parikh
When the stakes involve your thyroid — and whether you can avoid surgery — experience matters. Dr. Parikh's combination of credentials is simply rare.
Thyroid RFA is still a relatively new offering in the United States, and truly experienced practitioners are scarce. Many patients have been told by providers in their own state that surgery is their only option — and then discover that Dr. Parikh, with over 500 RFA procedures performed and 6+ years of experience, offers a credible non-surgical alternative.
For the opportunity to preserve their thyroid, avoid surgery, and avoid lifelong medication, patients from Florida, Texas, New York, California, and dozens of states in between have made the trip to Atlanta. We have refined our process to make it as efficient and convenient as possible.
For many patients, the entire process — from initial contact to the day after their procedure — fits into a long weekend.
How the Out-of-Town Process Works
We've designed a streamlined path for patients traveling from outside Georgia.
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1
Send Your Records First
Before scheduling a visit, gather and send us your prior thyroid ultrasound reports and images (on CD or electronically), FNA biopsy pathology reports, and recent thyroid lab results (TSH, free T4). Our team reviews these to give Dr. Parikh an overview of your case before you arrive — so your consultation time is focused and productive.
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Schedule Your Consultation
Call our office at (770) 282-9353 to schedule your in-person consultation with Dr. Parikh. For patients with complete records, we can sometimes schedule consultation and procedure on the same or back-to-back days, allowing you to complete everything in one trip.
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Consultation Day (Day 1)
Dr. Parikh reviews your records, examines you, and reviews your ultrasound. He confirms whether you are a candidate for RFA and answers all your questions. If you are a candidate and you are ready to proceed, the procedure can often be scheduled for the next day or later the same week.
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Procedure Day (Day 2 or Later)
You arrive at our office for your RFA procedure. The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes. After a brief rest period, you are free to return to your hotel. Most patients rest the afternoon and feel well enough for light activity the following morning.
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Fly Home
Most patients are comfortable to fly home within 24–48 hours of the procedure. We provide detailed post-procedure instructions and contact information for any questions after you return home.
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Remote Follow-Up
Your 1-month ultrasound can often be obtained from a local imaging facility in your home state. We will provide you with the specific ultrasound protocol to request, and you can share the results with us electronically. Your 6-month and 12-month follow-ups can also be coordinated with local providers.
Getting to Atlanta
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Atlanta's airport (ATL) is one of the busiest in the world, with direct flights from virtually every major U.S. city. It is the most convenient airport for both of our office locations.
Getting to Our Offices
Our Atlanta office (Buckhead) is approximately 25 minutes from ATL via I-85 North. Our Marietta office is approximately 35–40 minutes from ATL via I-75 North. Rideshare services are readily available.
Hotels Near Our Atlanta Office
The Buckhead area has numerous hotel options within 2–3 miles of our office, ranging from extended-stay options to upscale hotels. Ask our staff for specific recommendations when you call.
Hotels Near Our Marietta Office
Downtown Marietta has several comfortable hotel options within easy distance of our Lacy Street office. Marietta is a charming, walkable historic town — a pleasant place to spend a day or two.
Bring a Companion
You will need a driver on the day of your procedure due to oral sedation. We strongly recommend traveling with a companion — a spouse, family member, or friend who can accompany you and help with transportation.
Questions Before You Travel
Our team is happy to answer questions about the travel process, what to expect, and how to prepare before you book your flights. Call us at (770) 282-9353.
How to Prepare for Your Trip
Records to Send in Advance
- Thyroid ultrasound reports (most recent + prior year if available)
- Ultrasound images on CD or electronically (if available)
- FNA biopsy pathology reports with Bethesda category
- Recent thyroid lab results (TSH, free T4) — within 12 months
- Any relevant notes from your referring physician
Day of Procedure Reminders
- Arrange a driver — you cannot drive after oral sedation
- Follow fasting instructions provided by our team
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with easy neck access
- Leave jewelry and valuables at the hotel
- Bring your ID and payment method
Plan for a 2-Night Stay at Minimum
We recommend planning for at least 2 nights in Atlanta — one night before your procedure and one night after. Most patients feel comfortable flying the morning following their procedure, but having the flexibility of an extra day is wise.
Can Some Patients Do Consultation and Procedure in One Day?
In select cases — when we have received and reviewed complete records in advance and the patient has two prior benign biopsies — it is sometimes possible to schedule consultation and procedure back-to-back on the same day. Ask our team when you call whether this applies to your situation.
What Traveling Patients Have Said
Ready to Make the Trip? Start by Sending Your Records.
Call our office and our team will walk you through how to submit your records and get the process started. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it is.