Patient Information & FAQs

Everything you need to know about visiting The Cardiology Doctors — appointments and access, tests and procedures, results and reports, payment and insurance, and how to prepare.

Appointments & access

No GP referral is required for most of our services. Appointments are usually offered within 1–2 weeks; urgent cases can often be seen sooner. We are based at The Charterhouse Clinic in Marylebone, central London — easily accessible by tube and offering a comfortable, modern environment.

Tests & procedures

Echocardiograms, ECGs and Holter monitors are painless, non-invasive procedures. Handheld echocardiograms are performed personally by Dr Laskar using a portable ultrasound — accurate, fast and convenient. Holter monitors record continuously for 24 hours up to 7 days while you go about normal activities. Echocardiograms and ECGs are safe in pregnancy as they use no radiation.

Results & reports

For echocardiograms and ECGs you receive preliminary results and an explanation on the day, with a full written report within 5–7 working days. Holter monitor results are usually available within 7–10 days. With consent, a detailed report is sent to your GP for continuity of care.

Payment & insurance

We accept all major credit and debit cards; payment is taken at the appointment. The service is primarily self-pay — some insurers may reimburse outpatient cover. 48 hours' notice is required for a full refund or reschedule.

Preparation & what to bring

No special preparation is needed for most tests — wear comfortable clothing. For blood tests, fasting may be required (we'll inform you). Please bring a list of current medications, any relevant previous test results, your GP's contact details, and (if relevant) your insurance policy details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral is required for most of our services. As a self-pay private patient you can book directly with us. We always recommend informing your GP, and we'll share our findings with them with your consent.

How quickly can I be seen?

We aim to offer appointments within 1–2 weeks. Urgent cases can often be accommodated sooner — contact us to discuss your specific needs.

What happens during a handheld echocardiogram?

A handheld echocardiogram is a portable ultrasound scan of your heart. You lie on a couch while Dr Laskar applies gel to your chest and uses a compact probe to take high-quality images. The scan is completely painless and takes about 30–45 minutes. You receive preliminary results the same day. If clinically needed, a full echocardiogram can also be arranged.

What is a Holter monitor and how do I wear it?

A Holter monitor is a small portable device that continuously records your heart rhythm for 24 hours up to 7 days. Small sticky electrodes are placed on your chest and connected to the device, which you wear on a belt or strap. You can continue most normal activities while wearing it.

Will the tests hurt?

No. Echocardiograms, ECGs and Holter monitors are all painless, non-invasive procedures. Blood tests involve a simple needle prick. Exercise ECG involves walking on a treadmill at increasing speeds.

Are these tests safe during pregnancy?

Echocardiograms and ECGs are safe during pregnancy as they don't involve radiation. Some tests (like CT scans) are not suitable. Always tell us if you are pregnant or might be pregnant so we can advise appropriately.

When will I get my results?

For echocardiograms and ECGs you receive preliminary results and an explanation on the day. A detailed written report is sent to you and your GP within 5–7 working days. Holter monitor results are typically available within 7–10 days.

Will my GP receive the results?

Yes — with your consent we send a detailed report to your GP. This ensures continuity of care and allows your GP to support any ongoing management or follow-up.

How do I pay?

We accept all major credit and debit cards. Payment is taken at the time of your appointment. Invoices are provided for your records.

Do you accept private medical insurance?

Our service is primarily self-pay. Some insurers may reimburse you for private consultations and tests if you have outpatient cover — check your policy. We can provide detailed invoices to support any claim.

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel?

We require 48 hours' notice for cancellations to offer a full refund or reschedule. Cancellations with less notice may incur a cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

For most tests, no special preparation is needed. Wear comfortable clothing. For blood tests, fasting may be required (we'll inform you). For exercise ECG, wear trainers and comfortable exercise clothing.

What should I bring?

Please bring a list of your current medications, any relevant medical records or previous test results, and your GP's contact details. If you have private insurance, bring your policy details.

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