What a consultation may include
A cardiology consultation begins with a conversation about why you were referred and what you have been experiencing. The cardiology professional may review your medical history, current medications, family history, previous investigations, and information supplied by your referring provider.
Depending on the reason for the visit, the appointment may also include a physical examination and a review of blood pressure, heart rate, or other available measurements. Every consultation is different, and not every patient needs the same tests or follow-up plan.
Reasons someone may be referred
A healthcare provider may request a cardiology opinion for many reasons, including:
- Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, or fainting
- An abnormal ECG, imaging result, heart sound, or other investigation
- Assessment of a known or suspected heart condition
- Review of cardiovascular risk factors or a family history of heart disease
- Follow-up after a previous cardiac event, procedure, or hospital visit
These examples are general. Your referral and clinical history determine what will be reviewed at your appointment.
Preparing for your visit
Having accurate information available helps make the consultation more useful. Unless the clinic has provided different instructions, consider bringing:
- Your Ontario health card and any referral documents you were given
- A current list of prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements
- Relevant records or test results the clinic asked you to bring
- Notes about when symptoms occur, what they feel like, and what makes them better or worse
- A short list of questions or concerns you want to discuss
If another person helps manage your care, you may wish to ask whether they can attend with you. Contact the clinic in advance if you need accessibility support or are unsure what to bring.
During the appointment
You will have an opportunity to explain your concerns in your own words. Clear details about the timing, frequency, and pattern of symptoms can be helpful. The clinician may ask about your daily activities, sleep, medical conditions, allergies, smoking history, and family health history.
Ask questions whenever something is unclear. It can be useful to take notes about any recommendations, tests, medication instructions, or follow-up arrangements discussed during the visit.
After the consultation
Next steps depend on the assessment. They may include further diagnostic testing, follow-up with the cardiology clinic, communication with your referring provider, or another care plan appropriate to your situation.
Before leaving, confirm who will arrange any recommended tests, how results will be communicated, and whether another appointment is required.
Confirm your appointment instructions
Bring the documents requested by the clinic. Continue medications as directed unless an appropriate healthcare professional has specifically told you otherwise.