Cardiology: get a medical opinion quickly

Consult a cardiologist online without an appointment

Consulting a general practitioner or a specialist is possible via online consultation. A cardiology consultation is available on Feeli.

What does a cardiologist specialise in?

A cardiologist is a doctor who specialises in the study of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular problems are one of the leading causes of death in France, so this specialist plays a vital role in your health. The cardiologist makes sure the patient's heart is functioning properly, examines the vessels and arteries, screens for and identifies any conditions, and proposes suitable treatments such as surgical, medical or endovascular treatments. They treat heart conditions, malformations and heart failure. They also treat diseases linked to atherosclerosis, a disease of the blood vessels. Generally speaking, they are concerned with all cardiovascular diseases, from stroke to heart failure, heart murmurs or pericarditis, which also fall within their field. A cardiologist deals with day-to-day cases of hypertension, patients with heart failure or suffering from angina. This specialist is also qualified to act in urgent and often life-threatening cases, such as preventing and stopping myocardial infarction, aneurysm rupture, or managing episodes of hypertension. Cardiologists often work hand in hand with other specialists such as neurologists, phlebologists or angiologists. They are also available for online consultation on Feeli.

When should you consult a cardiologist?

Most often, it is the general practitioner who refers their patient to a cardiologist when they consider it necessary. However, it is not necessary to consult a general practitioner before turning to this specialist. Patients at risk of developing cardiovascular conditions, or with a weak heart, are advised to consult a cardiologist regularly. This specialist can be consulted for prevention, or in the case of a diagnosed cardiovascular disease such as heart failure. Certain symptoms should raise concern, and in these cases it is best to consult a cardiologist to make sure the heart and vessels are functioning properly. Shortness of breath, frequent palpitations or chest pain are abnormal and can be addressed. Some patients need to be particularly vigilant and would benefit from consulting a cardiologist regularly to review their state of health and be properly monitored. Certain aggravating factors can make these patients more vulnerable. Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, stress, cholesterol, diabetes or hypertension can worsen heart problems. Elderly people, or people with a family history of heart attack or heart problems, are advised to regularly monitor their state of health. If in doubt, consulting a general practitioner or a cardiologist is recommended.

What is the cost of a cardiology consultation?

Several factors can affect the cost of a cardiologist, such as:
 • The practice sector: in Sector 1, the rate set by Social Security is 51 euros. In Sector 2, however, cardiologists can freely set their fees and charge additional fees above the standard rate.
In all cases, Social Security reimburses part of the consultation cost, up to 70%, with the remaining part covered by the patient's complementary health insurance (mutuelle). Please note that consulting a Sector 2 cardiologist nevertheless involves additional costs. It is advisable to check with your complementary insurer beforehand to find out the reimbursement terms.

What is a cardiology department?

A cardiology department is a specialised medical unit for the diagnosis, management and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular diseases are conditions affecting the blood vessels and the heart. Cardiology departments are usually located within healthcare facilities (university hospitals, hospitals, clinics, etc.) and are led by cardiologists. They are the specialists in heart problems. Cardiology departments can provide a wide range of services:
 • Diagnosis of heart disease. Tests and examinations may include, for example, an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress tests, an echocardiogram, blood tests, or medical imaging examinations (coronary angiography, for example);
 • Medical treatment of heart conditions;
 • Surgical intervention if necessary;
 • Monitoring and medical follow-up;
 • Prevention to maintain good heart health;
 • Cardiac emergencies;
 • A research unit for developing new treatments for cardiovascular diseases or new diagnostic methods.
A cardiology department is therefore able to provide a complete range of medical services for people suffering from heart conditions.

What happens during a cardiac examination?

A cardiac examination can vary depending on the patient's symptoms. That said, generally speaking, a cardiac examination may include:
 • An interview with the cardiologist, during which the patient describes their symptoms and medical history;
 • A physical examination: measuring blood pressure, listening to the heart, inspecting the veins, skin or nails for signs of heart failure or other conditions, etc.;
 • An electrocardiogram (ECG), to detect signs of cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial infarction or other heart abnormalities;
 • An echocardiogram, to assess the health of the heart (size, shape, movement, function, etc.);
 • Blood tests;
 • Wearing a blood pressure monitor (24 hours or more) to continuously record blood pressure or cardiac activity;
 • Stress tests;
 • Coronary angiography, if coronary artery disease is suspected;
 • Or a cardiac MRI or a scintigraphy scan.
Take care of your health with Feeli during a teleconsultation!