What Does a Cardiologist Do?
Cardiologists are experts in the study and care of heart health. Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart-related illness is the mainstay of this medical profession. Most patients are referred to a heart doctor by their internist or other regular doctor. A cardiologist is not a surgeon, but some will perform tests that are performed in an operating room. When a cardiovascular condition warrants surgical intervention, a cardiac surgeon is called into action.
Cardiologists use medication and sometimes. recommend dietary and other wellness changes to treat heart and vascular conditions. Once a potential heart related issue is identified, a cardiologist digs deeper to pinpoint the exact diagnosis. Often, a cardiologist will order tests like angiograms, catheterizations, transesophageal echocardiograms or echocardiograms to understand the specifics of the problem. If a non-invasive remedy will not solve the heart issue, a cardiologist calls upon a cardiac surgeon to take over the case. It isn’t uncommon for patients that have a family history of heart conditions to visit with a cardiologist to proactively determine what can be done to prevent potential heart conditions. Given the complexity of this field, heart doctors may have particular specializations such as pediatric cardiology or interventional heart medicine.
After earning an undergraduate degree in pre-med, biology, or chemistry, the next step is to go to medical school. While in medical school, you will study biochemistry, immunology, anatomy and physiology, human histology, medical practice, and cardiovascular health. Clinical rotations provide an overview of medical specialties like: oncology, general surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and psychiatry. Following medical school, you will spend three years in a residency program, gaining more practical experience. The study of the heart requires an additional three-year fellowship that's focused entirely on cardiovascular medicine. This fellowship will further your expertise on the study of the heart.
Heart doctors are among the top three earners in medical specialties, just behind orthopedic surgeons and plastic surgeons. In 2017, cardiologists earned an average of $410,000. Cardiologists with established practices, or who develop a reputation of success, can earn more.
Years of Experience
Paying your dues and continuing to learn will lead to becoming known in the field of cardiology. Some cardiologists teach, conduct research, and publish new findings. Experience helps cardiologists develop a reputation for excellence, and this leads to a larger number of patients and increased pay.
Job Growth Trend
The American population is growing older, and this increases the need for cardiologists. You can expect a 13-percent increase in job openings between now and 2026.
Dr. Kelly Meier earned her doctorate from Minnesota State Mankato in Educational Leadership. She is the author and co-author of 12 books focusing on customer service, diversity and team building. She serves as a consultant for business, industry and educational organizations. Dr. Meier has written business articles and books for Talico, Inc, Dynateam Consulting, Inc. and Kinect Education Group.