FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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DO I HAVE TO BE REFERRED BY A PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN?
No. While we work closely with many primary care physicians in the community, you do not need a referral to have an evaluation with our physicians.
Let’s discuss in greater detail how you won’t need a physician’s referral to visit CVG.
When it comes to seeking specialized medical care, many patients wonder if they need a referral from their primary care physician (PCP) before seeing a specialist. This question is particularly common when considering a visit to a cardiologist. The good news is that you don’t need a referral to visit CVG’s Atlanta cardiologists. We believe in making heart health care accessible, and we welcome patients who take the initiative to seek specialized cardiac care directly. However, it’s important to understand the various factors influencing whether a referral is necessary or beneficial in certain situations.
While our Atlanta cardiologists don’t require a referral, your insurance plan might have specific requirements. Some insurance policies, particularly those of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and certain Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), may require a referral from a PCP before covering specialist visits. This is designed to coordinate care and manage costs. However, many insurance plans, especially PPOs and point-of-service (POS) plans, allow direct access to specialists without a referral. It’s crucial to check with your insurance provider to understand your plan’s specific requirements and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Even though a referral isn’t necessary to visit our Atlanta cardiologists, there can be benefits to discussing your heart health concerns with your PCP first. Your primary care doctor comprehensively views your overall health and medical history. They may be able to provide initial screenings or tests, potentially saving you both time and money. Additionally, your PCP can offer valuable insights and help coordinate care across different specialties if needed. However, if you have specific cardiac concerns or a history of heart issues, don’t hesitate to contact our cardiologists directly.
There are many situations where it’s appropriate and advisable to seek cardiac care directly without waiting for a referral. If you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or dizziness, it’s crucial to seek prompt evaluation from a heart specialist. Similarly, if you have a family history of heart disease or personal risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, scheduling an appointment with our Atlanta cardiologists can be a proactive step in managing your heart health.
Our cardiology practice in Atlanta maintains an open-door policy for all patients. We believe that everyone should have direct access to high-quality cardiac care when they need it. Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, have concerns about your heart health, or simply want a comprehensive cardiac evaluation, you’re welcome to schedule an appointment with us directly.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.