How to Choose a Cardiologist

Looking for a cardiologist may seem scary or intimidating to you. After all, who really wants to see a heart doctor? You can ask friends, family or co-workers that currently have or have had a heart doctor in the past. Ask whom they had for a doctor and whether or not they like him. If they don't have any recommendations, it is time for you to do some research.

Credentials are very important when it comes to choosing a heart specialist. They should already have their regular medical credentials but in addition, they should also be certified in specialties such as pediatric cardiology. Many medical centers maintain a database that showcases the credentials and specialty. These directories will tell you where the doctor went to medical school, where he did his residency, what certificates he holds, what his specialties are, whether or not he has any malpractice suits against him and any disciplinary actions he may have.

Another important credential to look for is the Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Membership into this organization is done by an election. Those that are elected into this fellowship are the top heart doctors in the United States. Voting is based on any achievements that the cardiologist may have, what contributions he has made to the community and recommendations from his colleagues.

Experience is extremely important when it comes to choosing a cardiologist, especially if you need any type of heart procedure done. The heart is a very delicate organ and you don't want to trust it to just anyone. If you need a specific procedure done, ask the heart specialist how many of those procedures he has done. You certainly do not want to be his first candidate.

Believe it or not, your gender has a lot to do with choosing a heart doctor. Women have different heart problems and conditions than men do. So do not be afraid to ask the cardiologist what experience he has with men or women, depending on your gender. You may want to even try and find a specialist that deals only with women and their heart conditions.

Communication is the number one thing that is important when it comes to the relationship between you and your heart doctor. When you have your first appointment with the doctor, you should listen to what he has to say about your condition and what course of treatment he recommends. He should explain everything that you need to know in terms that you can understand. Not many of us are well versed with medical terminology. You should ask any questions that you may have and the doctor should take the time to fully explain the concerns to you.

Your instincts matter when choosing a doctor. If the doctor communicates well with you, explains any procedure you need and takes the time to listen to your concerns, it is probably a safe bet that he is your best choice.