DAVID J. STEFLIK, MD

For families in Florence, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me" specializing in the care of young patients, David J. Steflik, MD, offers pediatric cardiology services from his office located at W Johnson St Suite 400, Florence, SC 29506. As a pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Steflik focuses on the diagnosis and management of heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents, recognizing the unique cardiovascular needs of this patient population.

The office of Dr. David J. Steflik, situated at Suite 400 on W Johnson St, likely provides a medical environment tailored to the needs of children and their families. While specific details about the clinic's decor and amenities are not provided, pediatric medical offices often strive to create a welcoming and reassuring atmosphere for young patients. This may include child-friendly waiting areas and examination rooms equipped with specialized equipment for pediatric cardiac assessments. The staff is also likely experienced in interacting with children and addressing the concerns of their parents or guardians. The location within a medical building suggests access to other medical specialties and resources if needed, although these are not specified.

As a pediatric cardiologist, Dr. David J. Steflik's services would be specifically focused on the cardiovascular health of infants, children, and adolescents. These services typically encompass a comprehensive range of diagnostic, treatment, and management options for various pediatric heart conditions, including:

• Comprehensive Pediatric Cardiac Evaluations: Thorough assessments of a child's cardiovascular health, including a review of medical history (including prenatal history), physical examinations, and evaluation of any symptoms or concerns related to the heart.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): A non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of a child's heart, helping to diagnose arrhythmias and other electrical abnormalities.
• Echocardiography: An ultrasound imaging technique specifically adapted for children to visualize the structure and function of the heart, including the heart chambers, valves, and blood flow. This is a crucial tool for diagnosing congenital heart defects and other pediatric cardiac conditions.
• Fetal Echocardiography: Specialized ultrasound performed during pregnancy to assess the baby's heart development and identify potential congenital heart defects before birth. The availability of this service with Dr. Steflik would need to be confirmed with his office.
• Exercise Stress Testing: For older children and adolescents, this test monitors the heart's performance during physical activity to assess exercise tolerance and identify any exercise-induced cardiac issues.
• Holter and Event Monitoring: Portable devices used to continuously or intermittently record a child's heart rhythm over an extended period to detect infrequent or transient arrhythmias.
• Management of Congenital Heart Defects: Diagnosis and medical management of structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth. This may involve collaboration with pediatric cardiac surgeons for surgical interventions when necessary.
• Management of Acquired Heart Conditions: Treatment of heart conditions that develop after birth, such as Kawasaki disease, myocarditis, and rheumatic fever.
• Evaluation and Management of Arrhythmias: Diagnosis and treatment of irregular heart rhythms in children and adolescents.
• Assessment of Chest Pain, Palpitations, and Syncope (Fainting) in Children: Determining the cardiac or non-cardiac causes of these symptoms in young patients.
• Pre-operative Cardiac Evaluations: Assessing the cardiac health of children undergoing non-cardiac surgeries.

A key feature of a pediatric cardiology practice like Dr. Steflik's is the specialized knowledge and experience in dealing with the unique cardiac physiology and conditions affecting infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric cardiologists are trained to communicate effectively with both young patients and their families, providing reassurance and clear explanations about diagnoses and treatment plans. The positive review highlights Dr. Steflik's team's responsiveness, their willingness to accommodate urgent cases, and the doctor's thorough communication style, particularly appreciating the explanation of echocardiogram findings to concerned parents of a newborn. This suggests a patient-centered and compassionate approach, especially important when dealing with the anxieties associated with a child's health.

However, the negative review mentions concerns about communication skills and a perceived lack of interest in the care of a medically complicated child, citing brief visits and long follow-up intervals. This contrasting feedback suggests that individual experiences with the practice may vary. It is important for parents to consider both positive and negative feedback when choosing a healthcare provider for their child.

Promotional information for Dr. Steflik's practice is not explicitly provided in the given data. To inquire about accepted insurance plans, referral requirements, or any specific services offered, especially regarding fetal echocardiography or collaboration with pediatric cardiac surgeons, it is recommended to contact his office directly at (843) 777-7300 or +1 843-777-7300. Direct communication will allow parents to gather the necessary information to determine if Dr. Steflik's practice meets their child's specific healthcare needs.

In conclusion, for families in Florence, SC, seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me" specializing in pediatric cardiology, David J. Steflik, MD, located at W Johnson St Suite 400, offers focused care for infants, children, and adolescents with heart conditions. The positive review suggests a responsive and communicative approach, while the negative review raises concerns about communication in certain situations. Prospective families are encouraged to contact Dr. Steflik's office directly to discuss their child's specific needs and to gather more information about the practice.