Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center - St. Luke's Hospital

For individuals in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and the surrounding communities who are seeking comprehensive assessments of their heart health, particularly in connection with finding a "Heart Doctor Near Me," the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center, situated within St. Luke's Hospital at 101 Page St, New Bedford, MA 02740, USA, offers a vital resource. This center specializes in providing a range of diagnostic tests to evaluate various aspects of cardiovascular function, aiding physicians in the diagnosis and management of heart conditions.

The environment of the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center at St. Luke's Hospital benefits from being integrated within a well-established hospital setting. Patients can expect a professional and medically equipped environment, adhering to hospital standards of cleanliness, safety, and patient privacy. The center likely includes dedicated testing rooms with advanced cardiac diagnostic equipment, comfortable waiting areas for patients, and consultation spaces for discussing test results with healthcare professionals. Being part of St. Luke's Hospital, which is part of the larger Southcoast Health system, ensures access to a broader network of medical specialists and resources should further consultation or treatment be required.

The primary services offered at the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center focus on non-invasive and minimally invasive diagnostic procedures designed to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. These services typically include:

• **Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG):** A fundamental test that records the electrical activity of the heart, helping to detect arrhythmias, heart muscle damage, and other cardiac abnormalities.
• **Echocardiography:** Utilizing ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and surrounding structures, assessing its size, shape, and pumping function. Different types of echocardiograms may be available, including transthoracic, transesophageal, and stress echocardiograms.
• **Stress Testing:** Evaluating the heart's performance under physical stress (exercise stress test) or pharmacological stress (for those unable to exercise). This helps identify blockages in the coronary arteries and assess overall cardiac fitness.
• **Holter Monitoring:** A portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours (or longer) to continuously record the heart's rhythm, useful for detecting intermittent arrhythmias that may not be evident on a standard ECG.
• **Event Monitoring:** Similar to Holter monitoring but worn for a longer period (typically weeks) and activated by the patient when symptoms occur, aiding in the diagnosis of infrequent heart rhythm problems.
• **Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Measuring blood pressure at regular intervals over a 24-hour period to provide a more comprehensive assessment of blood pressure control.
• **Carotid Ultrasound:** Using ultrasound to visualize the carotid arteries in the neck, checking for plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) which can increase the risk of stroke.
• **Peripheral Arterial Doppler Studies:** Assessing blood flow in the arteries and veins of the arms and legs to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD) or venous insufficiency.
• **Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI):** A non-invasive test that compares blood pressure in the ankles and arms to screen for PAD.

While the Cardiovascular Testing Center primarily focuses on diagnostics, the results of these tests are crucial for cardiologists and other physicians in making informed decisions about patient care, including the need for medication, lifestyle changes, interventional procedures, or surgery. Therefore, for individuals seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me," this testing center serves as a key partner in providing the necessary information for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

A significant feature of the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center is its location within St. Luke's Hospital, a well-respected medical facility. This integration provides patients with the convenience of accessing advanced cardiac testing in a familiar and trusted healthcare environment. It also facilitates seamless communication and collaboration between the testing center's staff and the patient's primary care physician or cardiologist within the Southcoast Health network.

The center is likely staffed by experienced cardiac technicians, nurses, and supervising cardiologists who are skilled in performing and interpreting a wide range of cardiovascular tests. Their expertise ensures the accuracy and reliability of the test results, which are essential for guiding patient care. The commitment to utilizing advanced technology and adhering to established clinical protocols are also important features of such a specialized testing center.

Currently, there is no specific promotional information available for the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center - St. Luke's Hospital in the provided text. However, the inherent value lies in its provision of essential diagnostic services that are integral to the management of heart health. For local users searching for a "Heart Doctor Near Me," knowing that there is a conveniently located and reputable cardiovascular testing center nearby can be a significant factor in choosing a healthcare provider, as timely and accurate diagnostics are crucial for effective cardiac care.

The address, 101 Page St, New Bedford, MA 02740, USA, offers a clear point of reference for local residents. The phone number, (508) 973-5480 or +1 508-973-5480, serves as a direct line of communication for scheduling tests, inquiring about specific procedures, and obtaining information about preparation guidelines. Individuals who have been referred for cardiovascular testing by their physician or who have questions about the services offered are encouraged to contact the center directly.

In conclusion, the Southcoast Cardiovascular Testing Center, located within St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, MA, provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests to assess heart health. Its integration within a reputable hospital setting, experienced staff, and utilization of advanced technology make it a valuable resource for local users seeking to understand their cardiovascular status. For those in search of a "Heart Doctor Near Me," this testing center plays a critical role in supporting accurate diagnoses and informed treatment decisions, contributing to better cardiac care within the community.