what type of doctor follows you?

For those with cardiomyopathy and a crt-d, I was wondering what type of doctors were following you? My cardiologist who specializes in heart failure is leaving and I wondered if I could just see my EP for my follow up visits. The office seems agreeable to that, and I would love to have just one doctor. Does anyone just see their EP and the PM techs for their treatment? Thanks-

3 Comments

EP

by Hope - 2013-02-04 03:02:04

Hi! My EP was on duty in 2004 when I was admitted to the hospital. He diagnosed, implanted and is my total cardio care giver. I go to device lab. This has worked great for me for 8 years. I think it depends on the expertise level and experience of the EP as to whether it is advisable. Hopeful Heart

I work with the Alaska Heart Institute

by janetinak - 2013-02-05 05:02:56

& as the name implies this is a large practice with about 15 (I think at last count cardio specialist). I saw my regular cardio for 1.5 yrs to try & control Afib, when that didn't seem to help he asked if I wanted to see the EP that had joined the practice to discuss a PM. I dragged my feet for awhile then saw EP & his Nurse Practioner, Between the two I got all info I needed to make my decision. And have been a card carrying PM member since. I see the Coumadin clinic there every month for INR, checked by device clinic every 3 months (phone alternate with in person) & see my regular cardio every 2 yrs or as needed. These appointments are all in the same place & everybody knows me after seeing me since 1/99 & it is very comforting to me. Hope this helps.

Janet

thanks

by L5 - 2013-02-05 09:02:35

I am going to see my EP in April for my next scheduled follow up and if he thinks I need to see an additional doctor he can tell me that then. But I really like my EP and he is the one that talked my cardiologist into getting a CRT-D rather than just an ICD. (Which I am glad to have) And the interim cardiologist does not seem to understand devices, so HURTHEART, you hit several nails on the head.

HOPE, I am glad to hear someone works with just their EP and device clinic.

Cabg Patch, does your witch doctor make house calls? Tired of traveling to appointments.

Thanks all-

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