Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a booking to see a Cardiologist?

To arrange an appointment please phone us on (02) 5524 1700.
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Do I need a referral?

Yes. It is essential that you have a valid referral from your doctor. This can be in the form of a current referral, previously provided by your General Practitioner or another Specialist, or it may be that a new referral is required, for example, if you are a new patient to Port Macquarie Cardiology or you are being referred back to see us again. You are welcome to call our friendly reception team to check on your referral status before you attend for your consultation. 

Please note that in order to be eligible for a Medicare Rebate, a valid referral is required. Generally, referrals from general practitioners are valid for 12 months, and those from specialists/physicians are valid for 3 months only. Please ensure your referral is up to date.

How much will my appointment cost?

The cost depends on the type of consultation or test you have.

Port Macquarie Cardiology is committed to providing the highest quality of specialist cardiology care. Our fees are lower than that recommended by the Australian Medical Association for specialty cardiology services. We are not a Bulk Billing Practice, however, Veterans who hold a Gold Card are not required to pay any out of pocket expenses, and some White Card Holders will be eligible. Pensioners & Health Care Card Holders are eligible for a concession. Please ask at reception when booking your test.

What should I bring?

  • Current referral
  • List of current medications
  • Medicare card
  • Private health fund details
  • Pension card or Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card
  • If you use a Ventolin inhaler please bring it with you.

What should I wear?

See below for the following requirements for each test:

12 Lead ECG

View Requirements

  • Women should wear comfortable, two-piece clothing as it is necessary to remove clothing from the upper body to perform the test.
  • Men may require small areas on the chest to be shaved to ensure adequate skin contact.
  • Do not use talc, body lotion or wear neck chains.

Cardiac Ultrasound

View Requirements

  • Women should wear comfortable, two-piece clothing as it is necessary to remove clothing from the upper body to perform the test.
  • A gown or sheet will be provided for comfort and privacy.

Exercise Stress Echocardiogram

View Requirements

  • You will need to bring clothes and shoes suitable for walking or running.
  • Women should wear comfortable, two-piece clothing as it is necessary to remove clothing from the upper body to perform the test.
  • Men may require small areas on the chest to be shaved to ensure adequate electrode contact.
  • Do not use talc, body lotion or wear neck chains.

Holter and Event Monitor

View Requirements

  • Please bath/shower prior to your monitor fitting, as you will NOT be able to shower/swim for the duration of the monitoring.
  • Wear a two-piece outfit, preferably loose fitting, as this enables the monitor to be worn in a discreet manner.
  • Men may require small areas on the chest to be shaved to ensure adequate electrode contact.
  • Do not use talc, body lotion or wear neck chains.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor

View Requirements

  • Please bath/shower prior to your monitor fitting, as you will NOT be able to shower/swim during the 24 hour monitoring.
  • Wear a two-piece outfit, preferably loose fitting, as this enables the monitor to be worn in a discreet manner.
  • Do not use talc, body lotion or wear neck chains.

Defibrillator and Pacemaker Check

View Requirements

  • Wear a two-piece outfit, preferably loose fitting, as this enables the electrodes to be connected in a discreet manner.

What should I do about my medications?

Some medications may need to be stopped prior to some tests. Please check with your doctor or contact our practice on (02) 5524 1700. 

If you are diabetic, please advise our staff when making your appointment and follow your normal regime prior to the test. If you have a glucose monitor, please bring it with you.

Should I bring someone with me?

If you have had heart trouble, feel unwell or do not exercise on a regular basis we recommend you have someone drive you to and from your appointment.

What if I am concerned about using the treadmill for the exercise stress test?

Our Cardiologists will assess your mobility to determine the suitability of the test. If you are asked to take an exercise stress test you will be closely monitored by our staff to ensure your safety and comfort. The test generally involves walking on the treadmill on a slight incline. Those who have a particularly high fitness level may be required to jog towards the end of the test.

How can I learn more about heart disease?

The National Heart Foundation of Australia website includes useful information about heart health, healthy eating and active living.

Visit http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/

What are the warning signs of a heart attack?

Visit the Heart Foundation’s Heart Attack Facts website at http://www.heartattackfacts.org.au/

If you think you are having a heart attack call 000 immediately.

Where to Next...

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