Cardiology is the study of heart conditions. The Consultant with whom you have an appointment is a specialist in this area of medicine.

You need to bring the following with you:

• Appointment letter or card
• A list of current medications
• Your diary or a list of dates when you will not be available so that suitable times can be booked for tests, treatment or follow-up clinic appointments.

On arrival please report to the Out Patients reception. The receptionist will check that all your details held on computer - including your name, address and contact numbers are up to date and correct.

You may also be asked for additional information which we are obliged to collect and will help us provide a better service. You will then be directed to the appropriate waiting area.

You will be greeted by a member of staff. At this stage you may be asked to go for one of the following tests:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) - this is a tracing of the heart carried out by attaching leads to your chest and limbs.
• Echocardiograph (Echo) - a scan of the heart

These tests are carried out by a Cardiac Physiologist and both tests are simple and painless. Once the tests have been completed you will be asked to return to the clinic where the Cardiologist wills feedback your results.
 

Yes, a friend or relative is welcome. They can stay with you for the duration of your visit in most cases. However to respect your privacy they may be asked to wait outside if you are being examined or whilst tests are being carried out.

The consultant will ask you questions about your general health and symptoms you are having. He/she will want to know about any medication you are currently taking so please bring them or a list with you. He/she will make a full assessment of your condition and explain appropriate treatment options.

To aid diagnosis and help the consultant to make a decision about appropriate treatment an examination will be necessary. You will be asked to remove or loosen relevant articles of clothing. Your privacy and dignity will be respected at all times.

Common investigations include:

• Blood tests which can be carried out at the Out Patients department before you leave
• X-rays which can usually be carried out on the day of your appointment.
• Exercise tolerance test which is carried out in the Cardiology Department by a Cardiac Physiologist.

If additional tests and examinations are required, where possible, they will be arranged and confirmed with you before you leave the clinic.

Any suggested treatment and options will be explained fully during your consultation in order for you to make an informed decision.

If you require medication you will be given a letter to take to your GP who will prescribe the appropriate medication. If your Consultant wants you to start the medication immediately you will be given a prescription to take to the pharmacy.

Because there is the possibility that you may have some tests carried out on the same day, please allow approximately an hour and a half for your outpatient visit.

The Consultant may require you to return to the clinic for test results. If a follow up appointment is required, you will be asked to report to the receptionist where a suitable appointment with be arranged.

For queries about your appointment, to cancel or change your appointment please contact the bookings office on 02920 836714.

The consultant and nursing staff will be pleased to answer any queries you have about your condition or care at the time of your appointment.

If you need to discuss your referral or have queries about your condition which arise before or between appointments your GP should be able to help. He/she will receive a letter informing him of the outcome of your consultation. If you require a copy of any correspondence please inform us on the day of your appointment.