The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors Near Me in Athens, GA

Find the Top Heart Failure Experts and Specialists

The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors near Athens, GA

Last Updated: 02/22/2026

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MediFind found 67 doctor with experience in Heart Failure near Athens, GA. Of these, 48 are Experienced, 11 are Advanced and 8 are Distinguished.

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67 providers found
    Subodh K. Agrawal
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology | Sleep Medicine
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology | Sleep Medicine

    Athens Heart Center And Specialty Clinics

    2005 Prince Ave, 
    Athens,, GA 
     (1.9 miles away)
    Experience:
    35+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Subodh K. Agrawal, MD, FACC is an Athens, Georgia based board-certified cardiologist and healthcare entrepreneur with over three decades of clinical and leadership experience. He is the founder of Athens Heart Center and serves as CEO of Doctors ACO, where he focuses on improving care delivery, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability for medical practices across the United States.Dr. Agrawal specializes in cardiology, internal medicine, sleep medicine, and pain management, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to patient care and practice optimization. His clinical training includes fellowships at Emory University School of Medicine and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, following his MBBS from SMS Medical College, University of Rajasthan, India.In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Agrawal is actively involved in advancing healthcare innovation, including the adoption of AI-driven solutions to improve patient communication, front-desk efficiency, and revenue cycle performance in modern medical practices.Earlier in his career, he held international medical positions in Zambia, England, and Germany, contributing to diverse healthcare systems and gaining global clinical experience.Dr. Agrawal is also the founder of Physicians Circle for Patients, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to helping underserved and low-income patients access essential medical care. Dr. Agrawal is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Sitosterolemia, Chronic Pain, Pulmonary Edema, Hypertension, and Pacemaker Implantation.

    Jonathan M. Patton
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Distinguished in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jonathan Patton, MD, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 2006. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at the Medical College of Georgia in 2010 and his Cardiology Fellowship training at Emory University in 2013. He received his undergraduate degree from Harvard University. Dr. Patton joined Piedmont Athens Regional Cardiology in 2013. Dr. Patton is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology and Vascular Imaging. He is also a member of the American College of Cardiology and American Society of Echocardiography. In his spare time, Dr. Patton enjoys fishing, playing golf and spending time with his family. Dr. Patton welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Patton is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Angina, Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, and Heart Bypass Surgery.

    Joseph C. Poole
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Distinguished in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Joseph Poole MD, PhD earned his medical degree and a PhD in Vascular Biology from the Medical College of Georgia in 2008. He completed his Internal medicine residency and Cardiology fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine in 2015. He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University. Dr. Poole is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases. He has additional certifications in Adult Echocardiography, Vascular Medicine and Nuclear Cardiology. He has a special interest in the effects of aging on the cardiovascular system and additional expertise in the field of Cardio-oncology. In his spare time, Dr. Poole enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. His hobbies include fishing, playing guitar and jogging. Dr. Poole welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Poole is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Endocarditis, Coronary Heart Disease, Angina, and Atherosclerosis.

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    Kent R. Nilsson
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Distinguished in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Kent Nilsson, MD earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 2002 . He completed his Internal Medicine residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 2005. He completed both his Cardiology (2007) and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowships (2009) at Duke University Medical Center. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia. Prior to joining Piedmont Heart Institute, Dr. Nilsson was in practice at Athens Regional Medical Center and at Duke University Medical Center. Dr. Nilsson is board certified in both Cardiology and Cardiac Electrophysiology. He is a Fellow in both the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Rhythm Society. He is an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Georgia/Augusta University Medical Partnership in Athens, where he teaches and conducts research. In his spare time, Dr. Nilsson enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters. He enjoys gardening, hunting and fishing. The family is active in their church. Dr. Nilsson welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Nilsson is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Arrhythmias, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation.

    Benjamin H. Holland
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Ben Holland, MD, received his undergraduate degree from The University of Georgia. He earned his medical degree from Mercer University in 2005. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Virginia in 2008. He went on to complete cardiology fellowship at Wake Forest University. After an additional year of training in interventional cardiology, Dr. Holland moved back to his home town of Athens, GA in 2012. Dr. Holland welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Holland is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Aortic Valve Stenosis, Angina, Coronary Heart Disease, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), and Aortic Valve Replacement.

    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    St. Mary's Medical Group Inc.

    2470 Daniells Bridge Rd Bldg 200, 
    Athens,, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Lyn Lowman is a Cardiologist in Athens,, Georgia. Dr. Lowman is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Arrhythmias, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Heart Failure, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation.

    Paul M. Johnson
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Paul Johnson, MD, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 2008. He completed internship and residency at the University of North Carolina (UNC) Hospitals, where he also served as Chief Resident in Internal Medicine. He subsequently completed fellowship in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at UNC Hospitals and North Carolina Heart and Vascular, in Raleigh, NC. Dr. Johnson was also named Chief Cardiology Fellow at while UNC. Dr. Johnson is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology, and is a Registered Physician in Vascular Ultrasound Interpretation (RPVI). He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. Dr. Johnson specializes in the treatment of coronary artery disease, radial access for heart catheterization, and imaging and intervention for peripheral arterial disease. Dr. Johnson is originally from Calhoun, Georgia. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife and two young children. Dr. Johnson is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Angina, Coronary Heart Disease, Atherosclerosis, Heart Attack, and Heart Bypass Surgery.

    Ferdos K. Pohlel
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Khan Pohlel, MD earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 2001. He completed his internal medicine, cardiology and interventional cardiology fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine concluding in 2008. He received his undergraduate degree from Emory University also. Prior to joining Piedmont Athens Regional, Dr. Pohlel was in practice with Athens Cardiology Group. Dr. Pohlel is board certified in cardiology, interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology and endovascular medicine. He is a member of the American College of Cardiology and Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. In his spare time, Dr. Pohlel enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters involved in outdoor activities including hiking, golf, fishing and hunting. Dr. Pohlel welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Pohlel is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Aortic Valve Stenosis, Angina, Atrial Fibrillation, Aortic Valve Replacement, and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

    Antonio Sotolongo
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiac Electrophysiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiac Electrophysiology | Cardiology

    Piedmont Heart Of Athens

    242 King Avenue, Suite 210, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Antonio Sotolongo, MD, earned his medical degree from University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine in 2011. He completed both his residency in Internal Medicine (2014) and his Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship (2017) at the University District Hospital of the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. He completed his Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University in 2019.Dr. Sotolongo has been practicing electrophysiology for 5 years. Prior to joining Piedmont, Dr. Sotolongo was a Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiologist at University Hospitals in Cleveland Ohio and Clinical Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.Dr. Sotolongo specializes in Electrophysiology. His special interests include catheter ablation of cardiac arrhythmias, offering treatments for conditions such as supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation.In his spare time, Dr. Sotolongo enjoys playing golf as well as spending time with his wife and dog.Dr. Sotolongo is accepting new patients and welcomes most major insurance plans. Dr. Sotolongo is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Familial Progressive Cardiac Conduction Defect, Cardiomyopathy, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation.

    Jonathan R. Murrow
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Distinguished in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart At Oconee Health Campus

    1305 Jennings Mill Road, Suite 250, 
    Watkinsville, GA 
     (5.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jonathan Murrow, MD earned his medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine in 2001. He completed his internal medicine residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 2004 and cardiovascular fellowship training at Hopkins and Emory. He received his undergraduate degree from Harvard College. Prior to joining Piedmont Athens Regional Cardilogy, Dr. Murrow was in practice at Athens Regional Medical Center. Dr. Murrow is board certified in Cardiovascular Diseases, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, and Nuclear Cardiology. He is also a member of the American College of Cardiology. He also serves as the Campus Associate Dean of Research for the Augusta University - University of Georgia Medical Partnership in Athens. In his spare time, Dr. Murrow enjoys traveling and gardening. Dr. Murrow welcomes new patients and accepts most insurance plans. Dr. Murrow is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atherosclerosis, Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, Familial Neurocardiogenic Syncope, and Pacemaker Implantation.

    Matthew T. Crim
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Distinguished in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart At Oconee Health Campus

    1305 Jennings Mill Road, Suite 250, 
    Watkinsville, GA 
     (5.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Crim is board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, and Nuclear Cardiology. He is an Assistant Professor of Medicine with the Augusta University/University of Georgia Medical Partnership, a fellow of the American College of Cardiology, and a member of the American Heart Association.In his spare time, Dr. Crim enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He also enjoys food and travel. Dr. Crim is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, and Pulmonary Edema.

    Charles L. Braucher
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine | Pediatrics
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine | Pediatrics

    Piedmont Physicians At Resource Medical - Suite 3400

    1500 Oglethorpe Avenue, Suite 3400, 
    Athens, GA 
     (2.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Braucher earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and completed his residency at the University of Arkansas. He received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Georgia and is board certified in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Hospice and Palliative Care.Dr. Braucher has been practicing medicine for 32 years. Prior to joining Piedmont Physician Group, Dr. Braucher was a member of the Athens Regional Physician Group. He has historically been in private practice as well.In his spare time, Dr. Braucher enjoys spending time with his family. He enjoys landscaping, canoeing, hiking, and swimming. Please call the office to inquire about becoming a new patient. Dr. Braucher is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Glossitis, Pernicious Anemia, Melorheostosis with Osteopoikilosis, and Melorheostosis.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    PHI Of Athens

    242 King Ave Ste 210, 
    Athens,, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Jared Griffis is a Cardiologist in Athens,, Georgia. Dr. Griffis is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Angina, Heart Attack, Atrial Fibrillation, Acute Coronary Syndrome, and Pacemaker Implantation.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    St. Mary's Medical Group Inc.

    2470 Daniells Bridge Rd Bldg 200, 
    Athens,, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Erick Avelar is a Cardiologist in Athens,, Georgia. Dr. Avelar is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Cardiomyopathy Due to Anthracyclines, Familial Ventricular Tachycardia, Arrhythmias, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    St. Mary's Medical Group Inc.

    2470 Daniells Bridge Rd Bldg 200, 
    Athens, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Harvey Ouzts is a Cardiologist in Athens, Georgia. Dr. Ouzts is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), and Orthostatic Hypotension.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    Office

    700 Sunset Dr Bldg 300, 
    Athens,, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Susan Kreher is a Cardiologist in Athens,, Georgia. Dr. Kreher is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. Her top areas of expertise are Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, Hypertension, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    St. Mary's Medical Group Inc.

    2470 Daniells Bridge Rd Bldg 200, 
    Athens, GA 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Ravi Marfatia is a Cardiologist in Athens, Georgia. Dr. Marfatia is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST), Familial Ventricular Tachycardia, Heart Attack, and Fainting.

    Krupal J. Hari
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    Piedmont Heart At Oconee Health Campus

    1305 Jennings Mill Road, Suite 250, 
    Watkinsville, GA 
     (5.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Gujarati 
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Krupal Hari is a Cardiologist in Watkinsville, Georgia. Dr. Hari is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, and Familial Neurocardiogenic Syncope. Dr. Hari is currently accepting new patients.

    Fred Young
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine

    Piedmont Physicians Athens Prince Avenue

    1010 Prince Avenue, Ste 500, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Young earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and completed his residency at Tulane Medical School and the University of Maryland. He received his undergraduate degree in history from the University of Georgia and is board certified in Internal Medicine.Dr. Young has been practicing medicine for 31 years. Prior to joining, Piedmont Hawthorne OHC Dr. Young was a practicing partner with Hawthorne Medical Associates.In his spare time, Dr. Young enjoys spending time with his family; he has 5 children and 2 grandchildren). He enjoys being active in his church, bicycling, and reading.Dr. Young welcomes most major insurance plans. Dr. Young is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Hypertension.

    Jon M. Mcgough
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Internal Medicine

    Piedmont Physicians Athens Prince Avenue

    1010 Prince Avenue, Ste 500, 
    Athens, GA 
     (1.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jon M. McGough, M.D. is board certified in internal medicine. A Georgia native, he attended the University of Georgia and the Medical College of Georgia before completing his residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.He is passionate about helping patients maintain good health through optimizing their diets, exercise routines, and sleeping habits while placing strong emphasis on preventive care, age-appropriate vaccination, and thoughtful use of evidence based medical tests.His interests include management of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes; management of anxiety and depression; and assistance with weight loss. He also prescribes PrEP.While away from the clinic, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, hiking, gardening and supporting UGA athletics. Dr. Mcgough is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His top areas of expertise are Familial Hypertension, Hypertension, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Bronchitis.

    Showing 1-20 of 67

    Last Updated: 02/22/2026

    What is the definition of Heart Failure?

    Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptoms to occur throughout the body.

    Which doctors treat heart failure?   

    Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure, is managed by a team of specialized doctors

    • Primary care doctors are often the first to identify signs of heart failure. They help monitor symptoms, manage overall health, and coordinate care among specialists. They play an important role in early detection and ongoing support. 
    • Cardiologists, including heart failure specialists, lead treatment by diagnosing the condition, prescribing medications, and recommending lifestyle changes. In advanced cases, they may oversee procedures like implantable devices and heart transplants. 
    • Pulmonologists manage lung-related symptoms, such as shortness of breath, due to fluid buildup. They may prescribe diuretics or oxygen therapy to relieve congestion and improve breathing. 
    • Electrophysiologists treat heart rhythm issues (arrhythmias) that may develop with heart failure. They stabilize rhythms through medications, procedures, or implanted devices like pacemakers or defibrillators. 

    What are the symptoms of heart failure? 

    Symptoms of heart failure can vary by type and level of intensity from person to person. 

    Common signs include: 

    • Shortness of breath, especially during activity or while lying down 
    • Fatigue and weakness 
    • Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet 
    • Rapid or irregular heartbeat 
    • Persistent cough or wheezing, often with white or pink mucus 
    • Difficulty concentrating and a general feeling of being weak or tired 

    How is heart failure diagnosed?  

    Heart failure is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and tests that assess heart function.  

    • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Small sensors attached to the skin detect the heart’s rhythm and identify any irregularities, which can signal heart stress or damage. 
    • Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test uses sound waves to create live images that show the heart’s size, shape, and how well it pumps, helping doctors assess damage or weak heart muscle.  
    • Blood Tests: Tests like the B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) measure specific markers that show heart strain. Elevated BNP levels suggest the heart is under stress or working harder than normal. 
    • Chest X-ray: This imaging test shows the size of the heart and any fluid buildup in the lungs. Enlarged heart size or lung congestion can suggest heart failure.  
    • Stress Test: This test checks heart performance under exertion, usually involving exercise or medications that stimulate the heart. Doctors look at heart rate, blood pressure, and rhythm to identify defects. 
    • Cardiac MRI: A cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart, which allows doctors to spot any structural and functional issues. 

    How does heart failure progress?   

    Heart failure progresses in four stages, from A to D. 

    • Stage A: High risk of developing heart failure, but without symptoms or structural heart disease. 
    • Stage B: Structural heart disease is present but without symptoms of heart failure. 
    • Stage C: Symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath appear along with structural heart issues. 
    • Stage D: Advanced heart failure, where symptoms continue even with treatment. 

    By further classifying patients in stage C and stage D heart failure, healthcare teams can better understand how to treat symptoms in more advanced stages. The most common approach is to categorize patients based on symptom severity during physical activity.  

    • Class I means there is no limitation of physical activity 
    •  Class II means there is a slight limitation of physical activity 
    • Class III: means symptoms cause discomfort and limitation of physical activity 
    • Class IV means symptoms are present even at rest and any activity causes discomfort 

    What is the difference between a heart failure doctor and a cardiologist?  

    Both heart failure doctors and cardiologists treat heart failure, but they bring different levels of specialization. A cardiologist is a doctor who treats diseases of the heart and blood vessels, while a heart failure doctor is a cardiologist who specializes in heart failure. Cardiologists are experts in diagnosing and managing a wide range of heart conditions. Heart failure doctors focus specifically on heart failure and may prescribe advanced treatments or therapies. While both types of doctors are essential in treating heart failure, heart failure specialists provide a more focused approach for individuals with complex or severe cases.  

    What is the life expectancy of someone with heart failure? 

    Estimating survival rate is complicated because the life expectancy of someone with heart failure depends on what stage the condition is, how well they respond to treatment, and lifestyle factors. Early stages of heart failure, especially with lifestyle changes and treatment, can slow down progression. In later stages, treatment focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life. Regular follow-ups with a heart failure expert can help patients live longer, healthier lives. However, if heart failure is left untreated, it will be fatal.  

    When should I see a Heart Failure doctor near Athens, GA?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Heart Failure doctor near Athens, GA?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Heart Failure doctors near Athens, GA?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Heart Failure doctors near Athens, GA?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Heart Failure doctor near Athens, GA?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Heart Failure doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Heart Failure doctor near Athens, GA?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Heart Failure doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Heart Failure doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Heart Failure doctors near Athens, GA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Heart Failure doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Heart Failure doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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