Cardiology Appointment Cheat Sheet: Questions to Ask

You’ve done the research and chosen the cardiologist you feel is right for you. Now it’s time for your first appointment – do you know what questions you should ask your heart doctor? We’ve put together a quick cheat sheet below.

Before the Cardiology Appointment
When you schedule the cardiology appointment, there are a few things you should know before you head to the doctor’s office. Since many heart and vascular physicians have different requirements for your first visit, getting this information up front can help avoid any confusion or miscommunication. Make sure you know:

• If you need a referral in order to see that doctor
• Whether you need to bring your medical records
• If you should bring a list of medications you are currently taking

At the Cardiology Appointment
The most important thing to remember is that there are no bad cardiology questions to ask. Your trip to the doctor should provide you with the information you’re looking for, and if at any point you are confused or feel like you need a more detailed explanation, don’t hesitate to ask. Think about questions like:

• What heart condition do I have and how serious is it?
• Is there a cure for my condition? If not, what treatment options are there?
• Is this condition genetic?
• If it is not genetic, are there changes I can make to my lifestyle that can improve it?
• Are there complications that come along with this issue?
• What medication options are there? What are their side effects? How does it interact with other drugs?
• What warning symptoms might be signs of an emergency?
• Do you recommend a specific procedure? How does it work? Will I have to spend time in the hospital? What is the recovery time?
• When should I come in for my next appointment?
• Are there any support groups or informational sessions I can attend to learn more about my condition?

If you think of questions after you leave your cardiology appointment, feel free to call your doctor’s office and speak to a nurse or leave a message for the doctor. Your cardiologist will be happy to get back with you and provide you with the information you are looking for.