Compare 18 cardiologists in Occidental, CA. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
A first cardiology visit involves a detailed medical history, physical exam (including listening to your heart and checking your blood pressure in both arms), and an electrocardiogram (EKG). Depending on your symptoms, the cardiologist may order an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), stress test, or blood work. They will explain their findings and outline a treatment plan.
See a cardiologist if you have chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath with exertion, heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat, a family history of early heart disease, high blood pressure that is hard to control, high cholesterol not responding to lifestyle changes, dizziness or fainting episodes, or if your PCP detects a heart murmur or abnormal EKG.
Office visit copay: $30-75 · EKG: $200-500 · Echocardiogram: $1,000-3,000 · Stress test: $500-2,000
Chest pain has many causes, from muscle strain to heart disease. A cardiologist performs the testing needed to determine whether your heart is the source and develops a treatment plan if it is.
A heart that beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly may need treatment. Cardiologists use EKGs, Holter monitors, and other tools to diagnose the rhythm problem and determine the best approach.
Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped. It means it is not pumping as efficiently as it should. Cardiologists manage this condition with medications, lifestyle changes, and monitoring to keep you stable.
When blood pressure is resistant to standard treatment or is causing organ damage, a cardiologist provides advanced evaluation and treatment strategies beyond what primary care typically offers.
Recovering from a cardiac event requires close monitoring, medication optimization, and cardiac rehabilitation. Your cardiologist guides the recovery process and works to prevent future events.
Cardiology visits are covered under medical insurance as specialist visits. You may need a referral from your PCP depending on your plan type (HMO vs. PPO). Tests like echocardiograms and stress tests are generally covered when ordered for medical reasons but may require prior authorization. Cardiac rehabilitation after a heart event is covered by most plans.