Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I do a Heart Health Screening?
Most people want to take control of their own health. Most of the time tests cannot be ordered by a physician until symptoms have occurred. By having the screenings, you can possibly detect problems early and make lifestyle changes to improve your health.
When do I get my results for the Heart Health Screenings?
We review the screening results and have them in the mail to you within 2-3 business days from the date of your screening.
What do I wear?
Wear anything that you want, but we don’t recommend wearing a dress or any one piece outfit so that we can perform the ultrasounds and ECG on your upper body.
Does my insurance pay for the health screenings?
We do not file any insurance on these since most health insurances will not pay for screenings. This is something that you would pay for yourself in order to take a proactive approach to your own health.
What do I do next after I get my results from the Heart Health Screenings?
After you receive your results in the mail, review the information and if you have any questions, just give us a call. This is your healthcare. Feel free to discuss the information with your Primary Care Physician.
What’s The Difference between an EKG versus and Echocardiogram?
Often, we hear someone refer to an Echo as an EKG, thinking it’s the same thing, however that’s not the case. An ECG, EKG or electrocardiogram is a representation of the electrical activity of the heart. It demonstrates the rhythm of the heart such as normal sinus rhythm or atrial fibrillation. Rhythm disturbances such as premature beats and /or heart attacks may be seen. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound specialized on the heart which visually shows the heart valves and extra cardiac structures. Chamber dimensions, valve openings, valve area, valvular regurgitation or stenosis (blockage), and intracardiac pressures may be calculated as well as fluid around the heart and lungs may be noted also by an echocardiogram. Congenital defects in the heart can be seen by an echocardiogram as well as any damage from a previous heart attack. An Echo consists of about 60-80 images/cineloops and takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete the exam. A diagnostic echocardiogram is then read by a Cardiologist who provides a final report of the study. The Echo is a more comprehensive examination for diagnostic criteria and is also a tool used by Oncologists for chemotherapy patients to help determine their course of therapy. It is the easiest way to see if there is anything wrong with your heart without having to go through a surgery type setting such as a heart catheterization. One of the main components that a doctor is looking at when they order an echocardiogram is the ejection fraction, or EF. It is a value calculated to determine how well your heart is pumping. A normal EF is 55-60%. A common misunderstanding that patients have regarding a 55% EF is that only 55% of their heart is functioning but a ejection fraction (EF) of 55% is normal. An echocardiogram truly is a great test that provides a considerable amount of information to help guide all physicians in your healthcare.