Dr. James J. Fox, MD

For individuals in Sarasota, Florida, seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me," Dr. James J. Fox, MD, located at 1540 S Tamiami Trl #401, Sarasota, FL 34239, USA, is a cardiologist practicing at Florida Cardiac Consultants. When choosing a healthcare provider, it is essential to consider various aspects of the practice, including the physician's expertise, communication style, and the overall office environment. The available patient reviews offer contrasting perspectives that potential patients may find informative.

One detailed review presents a negative experience with Dr. Fox. The patient describes Dr. Fox as having a self-aggrandizing demeanor, frequently emphasizing his credentials. This patient recounts undergoing nuclear medicine and echocardiology procedures but expresses dissatisfaction with the explanation of the results, finding it vague and unhelpful. The review further alleges that Dr. Fox insisted on an immediate cardiac catheterization before an ablation for atrial fibrillation (Afib), stating that their electrophysiologist would not proceed otherwise. When the patient sought a second opinion, they claim Dr. Fox recommended someone they suspected was a personal acquaintance. Ultimately, this patient sought care elsewhere, at USF and Tampa General, where they received the Afib ablation first, followed by the cardiac catheterization a couple of months later, and reported a more thorough and detailed explanation of their condition and treatment. This reviewer strongly recommends seeking cardiac care outside of Dr. Fox's practice and describes the office staff at Florida Cardiac Consultants as "seriously unprofessional."

In contrast, another reviewer states that "Dr Fox was great," offering a positive assessment of the physician himself. However, this positive feedback is significantly tempered by strong negative comments regarding the administrative aspects of the practice. This reviewer specifically criticizes the receptionist and check-out staff. They recount a billing complaint that the office manager allegedly refused to discuss with Dr. Fox. The process of paying the bill is described as inconvenient, requiring multiple phone calls to voicemail, inconsistent return calls, and the absence of online payment options, necessitating payment via mail (check or credit card information written on the invoice). Additionally, this patient expresses frustration with the policy requiring in-office visits to receive test results, even when the results were normal and could have been communicated by phone, questioning the necessity and potential inconvenience of this policy.

Based on these reviews, the environment at Florida Cardiac Consultants, where Dr. Fox practices, appears to be a point of concern for at least one patient, who describes it as "seriously unprofessional." While the specifics of this assessment are not elaborated upon, it suggests potential issues with the office's atmosphere, staff interactions, or overall patient experience beyond the direct interaction with the physician. The second review further supports this concern by detailing negative experiences with the administrative staff and billing procedures.

Regarding the services provided by Dr. James J. Fox, MD, as a cardiologist, he likely offers a range of diagnostic and treatment options for various heart conditions. Based on the first review, these services appear to include:

• Nuclear Medicine Cardiac Procedures: These involve the use of radioactive tracers to assess heart function and blood flow.
• Echocardiology: This is an ultrasound of the heart used to evaluate its structure and function.
• Cardiac Catheterization: A procedure where a thin tube is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to diagnose and treat certain conditions.
• Electrophysiology Consultation (implied): Referral to or collaboration with electrophysiologists for the treatment of heart rhythm disorders like atrial fibrillation.
• General Cardiology Consultation: Diagnosis and management of various cardiovascular diseases.

It is reasonable to assume that Dr. Fox also provides other standard cardiology services such as electrocardiograms (ECG/EKG), stress testing, Holter monitoring, and management of conditions like hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and heart failure. However, the provided reviews do not offer a comprehensive list.

The features of Dr. Fox's practice, as perceived by patients, present a mixed picture. One patient found him to be "great" medically, while another described him as difficult, self-aggrandizing, and lacking in clear communication regarding test results. A significant point of contention in one review is the alleged insistence on a specific procedural order (cardiac catheterization before Afib ablation) and the recommendation for a second opinion that was perceived as biased. Another notable feature, based on the second review, is the office policy requiring in-person visits for all test results, even when normal, which was seen as inconvenient and potentially inefficient.

There is no promotional information available for Dr. James J. Fox, MD, or Florida Cardiac Consultants in the provided text. Potential patients would need to contact the office directly to inquire about any special offers, new patient incentives, or participation in specific insurance plans.

In conclusion, for individuals in Sarasota, Florida, searching for a "Heart Doctor Near Me," Dr. James J. Fox, MD, at Florida Cardiac Consultants, warrants careful consideration based on the available patient reviews. While one reviewer found Dr. Fox to be medically "great," the other recounts a negative experience with his communication style, perceived procedural inflexibility, and concerns about a recommended second opinion. Additionally, both reviews highlight significant issues with the office staff, billing procedures, and communication of test results. Potential patients should weigh these contrasting experiences and consider seeking further information or alternative opinions before making a decision about their cardiac care. Contacting the office directly at (941) 917-0060 or +1 941-917-0060 may provide additional insights into their current practices and policies.