The 20 Best Lafora Disease Doctors Near Me in Des Moines, IA

Find the Top Lafora Disease Experts and Specialists

The 20 Best Lafora Disease Doctors near Des Moines, IA

Last Updated: 02/22/2026

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MediFind found 12 doctor with experience in Lafora Disease near Des Moines, IA. Of these, 9 are Experienced, 2 are Advanced and 1 are Distinguished.

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12 providers found
    Rifali Patel
    Advanced in Lafora Disease
    Advanced in Lafora Disease

    Mercy Clinics Inc.

    330 Laurel St Ste 1200, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Rifali Patel is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Patel is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Seizures, Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure, Dravet Syndrome, and Memory Loss.

    Paul Babikian
    Distinguished in Lafora Disease
    Internal Medicine
    Distinguished in Lafora Disease
    Internal Medicine

    Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center

    1111 6th Ave, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Paul Babikian is an Internal Medicine provider in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Babikian is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Seizures, Epilepsy, Memory Loss, and Lafora Disease.

    Kyle Jorgensen
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Experienced in Lafora Disease

    Office

    1111 6th Ave Ste A100, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Kyle Jorgensen is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Jorgensen is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Epilepsy, Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome, Seizures, and Memory Loss.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology

    Unitypoint Health-Des Moines Multi-Specialty-Methodist Plaza

    1221 Pleasant St Ste 300, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Aradia Fu is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Fu is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Seizures, Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure, Epilepsy, and Photosensitive Epilepsy.

    Bruce Hughes
    Advanced in Lafora Disease
    Advanced in Lafora Disease

    Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center

    1111 6th Ave, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Bruce Hughes is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Hughes is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (RMS), Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease, and Transverse Myelitis.

    Keith Kohout
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Experienced in Lafora Disease

    Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center

    1111 6th Ave, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Keith Kohout is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Kohout is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Parkinson's Disease, Movement Disorders, Drug Induced Dyskinesia, and Memory Loss.

    Mark Puricelli
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Experienced in Lafora Disease

    Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center

    1111 6th Ave, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Mark Puricelli is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Puricelli is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Migraine, Migraine with Brainstem Aura, Peripheral Neuropathy, and Memory Loss.

    John Wright
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology

    MercyOne Ruan Neurology Care

    1111 6th Avenue, Suite A100, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    John Wright is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Wright is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Excessive Daytime Sleepiness, Memory Loss, Seizures, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

    Heike Schmolck
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Experienced in Lafora Disease

    Office

    1111 6th Ave Ste A100, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Heike Schmolck is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Schmolck is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, Congenital Cardiovascular Shunt, Cerebellar Degeneration, and Alzheimer's Disease.

    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Experienced in Lafora Disease

    Office

    1111 6th Ave Ste A100, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    David Friedgood is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Friedgood is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. His top areas of expertise are Memory Loss, Epilepsy, Seizures, and Partial Familial Epilepsy.

    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Neurology

    Broadlawns Medical Center

    1801 Hickman Rd, 
    Des Moines, IA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Wendy Zadeh is a Neurologist in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Zadeh is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Seizures, Migraine, Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure, and Epilepsy.

    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Lafora Disease
    Family Medicine

    Office

    1410 SW Tradition Dr Ste 120, 
    Ankeny, IA 
     (9.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Neelima Chennupati is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Ankeny, Iowa. Dr. Chennupati is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lafora Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Infant Hyperglycemia, Obesity, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and High Cholesterol.

    Showing 1-12 of 12

    Last Updated: 02/22/2026

    What is the definition of Lafora Disease?

    Lafora disease is an inherited, severe form of progressive myoclonus epilepsy. The condition most commonly begins with epileptic seizures in late childhood or adolescence. Other signs and symptoms include difficulty walking, muscle spasms (myoclonus) and dementia. Affected people also experience rapid cognitive deterioration that begins around the same time as the seizures. Most cases are caused by changes in either the EPM2A gene or the NHLRC1 gene and are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.

    When should I see a Lafora Disease doctor near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease doctor near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease doctors near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease doctors near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease doctor near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Lafora Disease 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 Lafora Disease doctor near Des Moines, IA?

    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 Lafora Disease 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 Lafora Disease 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 Lafora Disease doctors near Des Moines, IA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Lafora Disease 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 Lafora Disease doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Lafora Disease 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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