What to expect

Pacemaker inserted Nov 25

seeing cardiologist for follow up January 10

 

question...what does this doctor 's appointment entail?

 I am a visitor to the USA and will be paying for this visit out of pocket. 

 

Anyone tell me what to expect?  Cost?

i have had no complications

3 Comments

Costs

by Lurch - 2016-12-15 16:38:13

My cost are based totally on what is charged to my insurance company and the costs will vary tremendously from region to region.  If I see the Cardiologist the fee is $185.  For an interrogation with the Device Tech the fee is $85.  

call and ask

by Tracey_E - 2016-12-16 10:56:02

Ask them in advance what you can expect to pay and what the visit entails. Sometimes the charge is less for cash patients, but you'll want to work that out with them before the appointment. For me, an office visit with interrogation is $250, just the interrogation is $75. Every office is different what they do at 6 weeks. You might see the doctor and review settings. You  might just see a nurse to make sure your vitals are good and the incision is clean, then do a device check. It might just be a device check. The only way to know is to ask. 

Recrods

by BillH - 2016-12-16 13:14:03

Get aleast a summery from your present doctor and if possible a full record of the problem, details of the PM placement and inital readings.

The more data that they have the less questions and maybe test they will have to do.

For example, if they do an x-ray to verify lead placement it will be much better if they have the inital x-rays to see for any movements.

Like wise get a detail report to return to your regular doctor.

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Member Quotes

A properly implanted and adjusted pacemaker will not even be noticeable after you get over the surgery.