In short
Bring a list of your medicines, any previous results and a clear account of your symptoms, and write down your questions. Confirm practical details — such as referral, fees and any test preparation — directly with the practice before the day.
What to bring
For this practice’s current checklist, see patient information. In general, helpful items include:
- Identification and medical aid details, if applicable
- A referral letter, if you have one
- A list of all current medicines, with doses, including supplements and over-the-counter products
- Previous heart test results, reports or hospital discharge letters
- Home blood pressure readings, if you have been recording them
Describing your symptoms
Before the visit, note when symptoms started, how often they happen, how long they last, what brings them on or eases them, and anything that happens at the same time. A short diary over a week or two can be very helpful.
Questions worth asking
- What do you think is causing my symptoms?
- Which tests do you recommend, and why?
- What are my treatment options?
- Which symptoms should prompt me to seek urgent care?
- When should I follow up?
Confirm with the practice
Referral requirements, fees and medical aid arrangements, appointment length and test preparation can vary. Please confirm them directly with the practice — this guide does not set out practice policy.
Common questions
Should I stop any medicines before my appointment?+
No, not unless the clinician who prescribed them, or the practice, specifically tells you to.
Can someone come with me?+
Many people find it helpful to bring a family member or friend to help remember what was discussed. Confirm any practical arrangements with the practice.
Sources and further reading
General patient education written in plain language and informed by the sources above. It is not a substitute for an individual assessment, and does not describe practice-specific fees, referral rules or preparation — please confirm these with the practice.