The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors Near Me in Shelby, NC

Find the Top Heart Failure Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 1663 doctor with experience in Heart Failure near Shelby, NC. Of these, 1313 are Experienced, 297 are Advanced, 39 are Distinguished and 9 are Elite.

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1,663 providers found
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    Duke Cardiology Clinic - Clinic 2F/2G

    40 Duke Medicine Cir, 
    Durham, NC 
    Experience:
    19+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    "I am a cardiologist with a clinical interest in heart failure, including advanced therapies such as cardiac transplantation and mechanical assist devices or “heart pumps."" I became a heart failure cardiologist in order to help patients manage their chronic disease over many months and years. I consider myself strongly committed to compassionate patient care and have a focus on quality-of-life and patient preference. I am an effective communicator with an understanding and sensitivity to diversity and ethical practice. I am part of a clinical care team composed of physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and support staff that works together to promptly provide comprehensive patient care. I am motivated to provide state-of-the-art cardiovascular care for my patients.". Dr. Mentz is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 11 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Low Blood Pressure, Heart Transplant, and Endoscopy. Dr. Mentz is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Cardiovascular Disease and American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology.

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    Duke Cardiology Clinic - Clinic 2F/2G

    40 Duke Medicine Cir, 
    Durham, NC 
    Experience:
    19+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    I grew up in a small town in Illinois and was inspired by our family physician to pursue a career in medicine. Once in medical school, I chose to specialize in heart disease and heart failure. As a cardiologist, I care for people living with heart failure, including those who have an LVAD (heart pump) or those who have undergone heart transplant surgery. One of the things I love most about practicing cardiology is being able to care for my patients over time. I often first meet patients and their families in a hospital setting, but then see them in clinic afterward as we work together to manage their illness and improve their health and quality of life. I enjoy getting to know my patients and making personal connections with them as we spend time together. My hope is that my patients feel comfortable with me and that they know I am always here for them. Dr. Devore is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Pulmonary Edema, Heart Transplant, and Endoscopy. Dr. Devore is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Internal Medicine , American Board Of Internal Med, Cardiovascular Disease , and American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology.

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology

    Duke Cardiology Clinic - Clinic 2F/2G

    40 Duke Medicine Cir, 
    Durham, NC 
    Experience:
    14+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    I am a cardiologist with a clinical and research interest in heart failure. I take care of patients with various types of heart failure, including patients who are best treated with medications and patients who receive advanced therapies like heart transplantation and mechanical assist devices. I became a heart failure cardiologist to help patients manage their heart conditions and best achieve their goals for their health. I am strongly committed to helping patients thoroughly understand their medical conditions and helping them make informed medical decisions aligned with their preferences. Dr. Greene is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Cardiomyopathy, Low Blood Pressure, and Heart Transplant. Dr. Greene is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Internal Medicine , American Board Of Internal Med, Cardiovascular Disease , and American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Elite in Heart Failure

    Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist

    S Hawthorne Rd, 
    Winston Salem, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dalane Kitzman is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Dr. Kitzman is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Heart Failure, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiomyopathy.

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    Duke Cardiology Clinic - Clinic 2F/2G

    40 Duke Medicine Cir, 
    Durham, NC 
    Experience:
    33+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    My specialty is heart failure, especially advanced heart failure. We’re one of the largest heart transplant and mechanical support device programs in the world. We have vast experience, both in terms of medicine and surgery and all the things that go along with it. We have a level of expertise across the board, so you’re not just going to get pigeon-holed into one treatment that we happen to be good at. We have the ability to identify what treatment or treatments are best for you, then target each individual therapy for each individual patient. Many of the patients who come to see us have already seen other cardiologists, and many have been told there’s nothing more anybody can do. We try to take a fresh look at each person and we almost always find that there’s something we can do to help – maybe something simple like adjusting medications, or maybe a new device or adjustment of an existing device, or something more dramatic like a heart transplant or mechanical heart device. Dr. Michael is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Pulmonary Edema, Heart Transplant, and Endoscopy. Dr. Michael is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology.

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Elite in Heart Failure

    University Of North Carolina Hospitals

    101 Manning Dr, 
    Chapel Hill, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Kirkwood Adams is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Dr. Adams is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, Pediatric Myocarditis, and Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF).

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    Duke Cardiology Clinic - Clinic 2F/2G

    40 Duke Medicine Cir, 
    Durham, NC 
    Experience:
    24+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    I am a researcher and heart transplant specialist who also serves as medical director for the heart transplant program at Duke. From the time I was a child, I have been fascinated by how the human body works, specifically by how blood travels around the body. I became especially interested in how the heart behaves when it is normal and how it adapts when it is damaged. As a transplant cardiologist, I get to combine these interests with cutting-edge medicine to help people to live longer and feel better, even when hearts fail. I enjoy getting to know patients and their loved ones as they go through their transplant journey at Duke. I am also fortunate to be part of an experienced team that has been together for over a decade taking care of heart transplant patients. Dr. Patel is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 23 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Cardiomyopathy, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, Heart Transplant, and Lung Transplant. Dr. Patel is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Cardiovascular Disease and American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology.

    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology

    Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Concord

    100 Medical Park Drive, Suite 210, 
    Concord, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Priyesh Patel is a Cardiologist and an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist practicing medicine in Concord, North Carolina. Dr. Patel is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 3 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Cardiogenic Shock, and Heart Transplant. Dr. Patel is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology. Dr. Patel is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology

    Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Concord

    100 Medical Park Drive, Suite 210, 
    Concord, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Stephen Zouzoulas is a Cardiologist and an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist practicing medicine in Concord, North Carolina. Dr. Zouzoulas is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 11 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Heart Failure, Pulmonary Edema, and Cardiomyopathy. Dr. Zouzoulas is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular DiseaseAmerican Board Of Nuclear Medicine. Dr. Zouzoulas is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Joseph Mishkin is a Cardiologist and an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Mishkin is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Cardiomyopathy, Heart Failure, Pulmonary Hypertension, Pulmonary Edema, and Heart Transplant. Dr. Mishkin is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease. Dr. Mishkin is currently accepting new patients.

    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Elite in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    0

    3000 New Bern Ave, 
    Raleigh, NC 
    Experience:
    35+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    I specialize in the care of patients with general and advanced heart failure. I look at each patient individually, yet apply the most advanced therapies for everyone. I have a particular interest in understanding the causes of heart failure, especially related to pregnancy and chemotherapy. I am also involved in a number of research projects evaluating new possible therapies for patients with heart failure. Outside of work, I enjoy cycling and spending time cycling with my wife and three boys. Dr. Russell is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Cardiomyopathy, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Heart Transplant, and Tissue Biopsy. Dr. Russell is board certified in American Board Of Internal Med, Advanced Heart Failure And Transplant Cardiology and American Board Of Internal Med, Cardiovascular Disease.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Cardiology

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Troy Leo is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Leo is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure, Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM), Pulmonary Edema, and Necrosis. Dr. Leo is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Leo is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Concord

    100 Medical Park Drive, Suite 210, 
    Concord, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Patrick Anonick is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Concord, North Carolina. Dr. Anonick is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, and Pulmonary Edema. Dr. Anonick is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Adult Cardiology Pineville

    10650 Park Road, Suite 220, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    George Dodds is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Dodds is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Atrial Fibrillation, Angina, Atherosclerosis, Coronary Heart Disease, and Pacemaker Implantation. Dr. Dodds is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dermot Phelan is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Phelan is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Aortic Regurgitation, Cardiomyopathy, and Tenotomy. Dr. Phelan is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease. Dr. Phelan is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology | Cardiology

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Theodore Frank is a Cardiologist and an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Frank is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pulmonary Hypertension, Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease, Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM), Cardiomyopathy, and Heart Transplant. Dr. Frank is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease. Dr. Frank is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    John Fedor is a Cardiologist and a Cardiac Electrophysiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Fedor is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Arrhythmias, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Familial Ventricular Tachycardia, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Fedor is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology. Dr. Fedor is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Concord

    100 Medical Park Drive, Suite 210, 
    Concord, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Elijah Beaty is a Cardiologist and a Cardiac Electrophysiologist practicing medicine in Concord, North Carolina. Dr. Beaty is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 21 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Arrhythmias, Atrial Fibrillation, Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT), Cardiac Ablation, and Pacemaker Implantation. Dr. Beaty is board certified in American Board Of IM/Cardiovascular Disease and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology. Dr. Beaty is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Lake Norman

    134 Medical Park Road, Suite 111, 
    Mooresville, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Shomeet Patel is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Mooresville, North Carolina. Dr. Patel is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Atrial Fibrillation, Angina, Atherosclerosis, and Coronary Heart Disease. Dr. Patel is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease. Dr. Patel is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Kenilworth

    1237 Harding Place, 
    Charlotte, NC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Michael Rinaldi is a Cardiologist and an Interventional Cardiologist practicing medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Rinaldi is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Aortic Valve Stenosis, Mitral Valve Regurgitation, Heart Attack, Aortic Valve Replacement, and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). Dr. Rinaldi is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Interventional Cardiology. Dr. Rinaldi is currently accepting new patients.

    Showing 1-20 of 1,663

    Last Updated: 04/28/2026

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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 Shelby, NC?

    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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