Understand the specialty
Clinical Overview and Direction
Cardiology is the medical specialty dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the heart and blood vessels. For international patients seeking specialized care, it encompasses a wide range of services from preventive screenings to complex surgical interventions. Advanced cardiac care focuses on improving heart function, managing chronic conditions, and providing life-saving treatments using state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based medical practices.
Diagnostics and Useful Records
Complete records help the clinical team prepare a more useful opinion before travel.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
Echocardiogram (Ultrasound of the heart)
Cardiac catheterization and angiogram
Stress testing (Treadmill or pharmacological)
Holter monitoring (24-hour heart rate tracking)
Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
CT Coronary Angiogram
Blood tests for cardiac biomarkers
Treatment Approaches to Discuss
Treatment depends on the confirmed diagnosis, overall health, investigations, goals and specialist-team assessment.
Angioplasty and stent placement
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Heart valve repair or replacement
Pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) insertion
Catheter ablation for arrhythmias
Heart failure management programs
Medication therapy and lifestyle modification
Cardiac rehabilitation
Selecting the Right Specialist
When selecting a cardiologist or cardiac surgeon, look for board-certified professionals with extensive experience in treating your specific condition. Consider specialists affiliated with internationally accredited hospitals (such as JCI accreditation) that feature dedicated heart centers and advanced cardiac intensive care units (ICUs). It is beneficial to inquire about the doctor's volume of cases for the proposed procedure, their complication rates, and their approach to multidisciplinary care. Open communication is vital, so choosing a specialist who explains treatment options clearly and involves you in the decision-making process will greatly enhance your treatment experience.
Preparing for Evaluation
Before traveling for specialized cardiac care, it is essential to gather all previous medical records, including ECGs, echocardiogram reports, angiography CDs, and a complete list of current medications with dosages. Patients should discuss their travel plans with their local physician to ensure they are fit to fly, especially if they have a history of recent heart issues. It is advisable to arrange for a companion to travel with you for support and assistance. Upon arrival, expect a comprehensive initial consultation where the specialist will review your history and may order updated diagnostic tests to tailor the treatment plan to your current condition.
Questions to Ask the Clinical Team
1What are the specific risks and benefits of the proposed treatment for my condition?
2Are there any alternative, less invasive treatment options available?
3How many times have you performed this specific procedure?
4What is the expected timeline for my recovery and return to normal activities?
5How long will I need to stay in the hospital and in the country before it is safe to fly home?
6What kind of follow-up care will I need once I return to my home country?
7How will my local doctor be kept informed about my treatment and progress?