A cardiologist is a specialized physician that treats conditions of the heart, arteries and veins which are collectively known as the cardiovascular s...
A cardiologist is a specialized physician that treats conditions of the heart,
arteries and veins which are collectively known as the cardiovascular system. Cardiology, the treatment of the cardiovascular system, is a part of internal medicine but is recognized as its own subspecialty within the larger specialization. Becoming a professional in this very demanding field takes a lot of hard work and dedication coupled with internships, training and supervised direct patient contact.
Doctors that complete the required education as well as the residency program can then be certified through the Internal Medicine Board as a cardiologist, but only after an additional three years of clinical training, patient care and further focused study areas. Once this is all completed another specialized cardiology examination is administered and those that pass are then considered to be board certified in cardiology. Many professionals continue to work at this level while others further specialize into areas of focus including interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology, echocardiography and electrophysiology. Some of these subspecializations are very recent, particularly electrophysiology, which deals exclusively with electrical components of the heart including the use of internal and external defibrillators and pacemakers.
As a specialized physician, they typically take referrals from other specialists or family and general practice doctors. They may work in private or public clinics and hospitals and often provide services as part of a patient treatment team. They are knowledgeable and experienced in providing and interpreting diagnostic types of tests including chest x-rays, MRI's, assessing for transplants, electrocardiograms, radionuclide studies and blood and tissue samples as required. In addition these physicians may also require stress testing on heart and cardiovascular system to fully understand and develop a preventative plan or a treatment for individuals with heart conditions or potential for developing heart conditions.
Cardiologists may also complete invasive and non-invasive procedures such as coronary angioplasty, heart catheterizations, echocardiography, insertion and monitoring of temporary or permanent pacemakers, coronary ateriography and care and management of cardiac surgery patients before and after the operation. Some may be cardiac surgeons as well, while others focus on care of acute and chronic heart disease and conditions.
Typically most patients that are seeking the services of a cardiologist already have some type of diagnosis or have significant symptoms of heart disease or cardiovascular health problems. The specialist is used to confirm the family doctor's diagnosis or to provide the initial diagnosis. At your first meeting with the specialists you will typically provide a medical history that is more in depth than the one provided to the referring physician. In addition, the heart specialist should take the time to explain their role on the treatment team as well as the results of any tests that have been previously completed.
Having a list of questions prepared in advance of your initial appointment and with subsequent appointments will help ensure you get the information you need. Questions about procedures, risks, benefits and options are all important, as is the possibility of a second opinion. Knowing the expected recovery time for the procedure as well as any complications or post-procedure risks is also important in making an informed decision.
One way to help ensure that you fully understand all the technical information that will be provided is to bring someone with you that can make notes and check to make sure all your questions are answered. This provides a double check on getting all the information at this very stressful time. Your cardiologist may also provide written information or direct you to informative, accurate online sources for information on your health condition, treatment options and important considerations.
