PATIENTS

When to see a cardiologist
 
A cardiologist referral is usually arranged by a GP after a discussion of symptoms, a physical examination, or as part of managing an existing risk factor. The following symptoms and risk factors are commonly assessed by cardiologists.
 
Common symptoms we assess
  • Chest pain, pressure or tightness — especially during activity
  • Heart palpitations — a racing, fluttering, pounding or skipping heartbeat
  • Irregular heartbeat or an awareness of your own heartbeat at rest
  • Shortness of breath, including breathlessness with exertion or when lying flat
  • Dizziness, light-headedness or fainting (syncope)
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet
  • A heart murmur identified by your GP
Risk factors that warrant a review
  • Family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac death
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking, past or present
  • Being overweight
What happens next
 
Depending on the symptoms or risk factors involved, a cardiologist may recommend further investigation such as an echocardiogram, stress echocardiogram, ECG, or Holter monitor to help reach a diagnosis or form a treatment plan. More information on these tests is available on our Services page.
 

Practical information about appointments, preparation, fees and what to expect on the day.

”calendar”/  Making an appointment

Patients can be seen at Nepean Cardiovascular Centre with a referral or request form from their GP (valid for a 12 month period) or specialist (valid for a 3 month period). 

If you have a referral from your doctor, please contact our team to arrange an appointment.

If your doctor has already sent us your referral, we will contact you directly to arrange your visit.

Our team is able to provide guidance on any preparation required for your appointment.

”notepad  What to bring

Please bring:

  • Referral or request form
  • Medicare card
  • Pension or concession card (if applicable)
  • Current medication list
  • Relevant test results or hospital discharge paperwork (if available)
  • Completed Patient Registration and Consent Forms (if these have not been emailed to us ahead of time)
treadmill   Preparation for tests

If your appointment includes a cardiac investigation, our staff will provide clear instructions at the time of booking. Most tests require no special preparation.

For stress echocardiograms, please wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear for walking on a treadmill.

Arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for registration.

medicare/credit card  Fees and Medicare rebates

Nepean Cardiovascular Centre is a private billing practice. Fees apply for consultations and cardiac investigations, and Medicare rebates are available for most services when you have a valid referral from your GP or specialist.

Fees and rebates

We will advise you of the fees and the Medicare rebate for your visit at the time of booking.

Medicare rebates

Following payment, we submit your claim to Medicare on your behalf. Rebates are typically deposited into your nominated bank account within 24–48 hours. The rebate covers part of the fee, and the remaining amount represents the out-of-pocket cost to you.

Private health insurance

Private health funds do not cover the cost of outpatient consultations or cardiac tests performed in private rooms. Health fund benefits apply only to services provided during a covered hospital admission.

Payment on the day

We are a cashless practice. Payment is required in full on the day of your appointment and can be made via EFTPOS. Medicare rebates will be processed immediately after payment.

If you have questions

Our team is happy to explain fees, rebates and billing processes to ensure you understand the costs associated with your care.

see reception  On the day of your appointment

Arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for registration if this is your first visit.

Please check in with reception on arrival. Our staff will confirm your details and guide you to your consultation or test.

If you are attending for a diagnostic investigation, please follow the preparation instructions provided earlier.

discussion with doctor  After your appointment

Your cardiologist will discuss results, recommendations and next steps with you. A summary may also be sent to your GP or specialist to ensure continuity of care.

Patients seen in the public hospital system may continue their ongoing management through our private rooms.

cross through calendar  Cancellations and missed appointments

We understand that circumstances can change and you may need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. If possible, please give us at least 24 hours notice, as this allows us to offer the appointment to another patient.

Late cancellations or failure to attend an appointment without notice may incur a fee. This is because our clinicians allocate dedicated time for each patient, and missed appointments impact access for others requiring timely cardiac care.

If you are unwell or unable to attend, please contact our rooms as soon as possible so we can make alternative arrangements.

information symbol  Further information: Services

Learn more about our Services.