Heart Health Checks in Hope Island
Heart disease is one of Australia’s leading health concerns – and much of the risk can be identified and managed early. At Marketplace Medical & Skin Clinic, our GPs provide heart health checks and cardiovascular risk assessments, with the added benefit of on-site access to a consultant cardiologist for specialist care when it’s needed.
Looking after your heart, from prevention to specialist care
Whether you want a routine check, have risk factors like high blood pressure or a family history, or are managing a known heart condition, our team can help. Our GPs assess your risk and coordinate your care – and because we have a consultant cardiologist available, more complex concerns can be assessed without starting from scratch elsewhere.
Our heart health services
Heart Health Check (cardiovascular risk assessment):
A structured check of your risk of heart disease and stroke, looking at blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, lifestyle and family history.
Blood pressure & cholesterol checks:
Simple, important checks to monitor two of the biggest contributors to heart-disease risk, with advice on managing them.
Access to a consultant cardiologist:
For specialist assessment, our visiting consultant cardiologist provides cardiac evaluation and imaging expertise. A GP referral is usually needed, and fees may apply for specialist consultations – our team can explain the process.
What affects your heart-disease risk
When assessing your risk, your GP may ask about:
- Your diet
- Physical activity levels
- Whether you smoke or drink alcohol
- Whether you’re maintaining a healthy weight
- Your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Your medical and family history
Many of these factors can be improved with the right support and small changes can make a real difference over time.
When should you have a heart check?
As a general guide, a heart health check is worth discussing:
- From age 45 (or 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), as part of routine prevention
- Earlier if you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes
- If you notice symptoms such as chest discomfort, breathlessness or palpitations – don’t wait for a routine check; book promptly, and in an emergency call 000
Your GP will advise what’s right for you.
Meet our cardiologist
Our visiting Consultant Cardiologist, Dr Shahid Hafeez, brings specialist training in cardiology, including cardiac imaging and preventive cardiology. Having a cardiologist available means specialist heart care can be coordinated alongside your GP.
Frequently asked questions
Is a heart health check bulk billed?
For eligible Medicare patients, a GP heart health check is bulk billed. Specialist cardiology consultations usually require a referral and may attract a fee. Our reception team can explain any costs before your appointment.
Do you have a cardiologist?
Yes. A consultant cardiologist is available at our clinic for specialist heart assessment. Your GP can refer you if specialist cardiology care is appropriate, and explain what to expect.
Do I need a referral to see the cardiologist?
Specialist cardiology consultations generally require a referral from a GP. Book a heart health check with one of our GPs first – they’ll assess you and arrange a referral if it’s needed.
What happens during a heart health check?
Your GP reviews your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, lifestyle and family history to estimate your risk of heart disease and stroke. They’ll discuss ways to reduce your risk and whether any further tests or specialist input are recommended.
When should I get my heart checked?
A heart health check is generally recommended from age 45 – or 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – and earlier if you have risk factors. If you have symptoms like chest pain or breathlessness, seek care promptly; in an emergency call 000.
Book your health assessment
Your heart works hard for you – give it a check. Book a heart health check online or call our reception team.
