The 20 Best Heart Failure Doctors Near Me in Columbia,, SC

Find the Top Heart Failure Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

Save doctors for later
Sign Up
Not sure about your diagnosis?
Check Your Symptoms
Already have a doctor?
Find A Second Opinion

MediFind found 117 doctor with experience in Heart Failure near Columbia,, SC. Of these, 82 are Experienced, 31 are Advanced and 4 are Distinguished.

Location
LocationClose
117 providers found
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Laurel St. Medical Pavilion

    2001 Laurel Street, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.1 miles away)
    Experience:
    46+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Michael Cameron Foster, MD, FACC, is a distinguished cardiologist with over 35 years of experience in cardiovascular medicine. He earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his residency at both Indiana University Medical Center and Boston University Medical Center. Dr. Foster further specialized with a fellowship in cardiology at Tufts University School of Medicine and Boston Veterans Administration Medical Center. He is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology, holding medical license number 12914 in South Carolina. Dr. Foster practices at MUSC Health Heart \& Vascular in Columbia, SC, and is affiliated with multiple hospitals, including MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown, MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center, and Lexington Medical Center. He has served as past president of the American Heart Association's South Carolina affiliate and has held leadership roles at Providence Hospital in Columbia. Additionally, Dr. Foster is a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and has been involved in several clinical trials related to heart failure and hyperlipidemia. Dr. Foster 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 Coronary Heart Disease, Angina, Atherosclerosis, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), and Aortic Valve Replacement. Dr. Foster is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Advanced in Heart Failure

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Laurel St. Medical Pavilion

    2001 Laurel Street, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.1 miles away)
    Experience:
    43+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Norma Khoury, MD, specializes in Cardiology and is located in Columbia, SC. Dr. Khoury is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. She is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Venous Insufficiency, Stasis Dermatitis and Ulcers, Coronary Heart Disease, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Khoury is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Transplant Surgery
    Distinguished in Heart Failure
    Cardiology | Transplant Surgery

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. McCann is a Heart Failure Cardiologist emphasizing a comprehensive therapeutic methodology to heart failure. After graduating from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Dr. McCann completed internal medicine residency at Saint Louis University. He was invited to serve as Chief Resident providing patient care and instructing residents and medical students. He remained at Saint Louis University for his general cardiology fellowship. Subsequently, he completed his advanced heart failure and transplant fellowship at University of California in San Diego.Dr. McCann then served as the medical director of heart failure, cardiac intensive care unit and left ventricular assist device programs at PRISMA Health. He established the first heart failure accountable care unit in South Carolina. He also developed one of the largest pulmonary artery pressure monitoring programs in the nation as a clinical assistant professor at the University of South Carolina.Additionally, he served over 20 years in the Air National Guard where he was the lead flight surgeon for the Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) at McEntire Joint National Guard Base. Dr. McCann is an internationally recognized clinical researcher. He participates on several scientific advisory boards and clinical trial steering committees. He has a keen interest in remote management to help improve access to care and proactively care for his patients.Dr. McCann believes each patient with heart failure is unique and providing optimal care requires a tailored, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Mccann is rated as a Distinguished 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, Pulmonary Edema, Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF), Patent Foramen Ovale Repair, and Pacemaker Implantation. Dr. Mccann is currently accepting new patients.

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

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 220, Suite 240, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    40+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Gerald Bauknight, MD, specializes in Electrophysiology Cardiology, and Cardiology and is located in Columbia, SC. Dr. Bauknight is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 20 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Sick Sinus Syndrome, Arrhythmias, Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Bauknight is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Thoracic Surgery
    Advanced in Heart Failure
    Thoracic Surgery

    MUSC Health Cardiothoracic Surgery Columbia Medical Park DT I

    2750 Laurel Street, Suite 201, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Will Yarbrough is a highly skilled cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon at MUSC Health in Columbia, SC. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in 1999.After completing a two-year NIH research fellowship and general surgery training at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, Dr. Yarbrough received his certification in cardiac and thoracic surgery from Stanford University Medical Center in Palo Alto, CA, in 2009.Certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, Dr. Yarbrough specializes in all aspects of adult cardiac and general thoracic surgery. Dr. Yarbrough is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Atrial Fibrillation, Atherosclerosis, Coronary Heart Disease, Angina, and Heart Bypass Surgery.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Laurel St. Medical Pavilion

    2001 Laurel Street, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.1 miles away)
    Experience:
    26+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Glen Dougherty, MD, specializes in Cardiology and is located in Columbia, SC. Dr. Dougherty is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Coronary Heart Disease, Arrhythmias, Venous Insufficiency, Cardiac Ablation, and Angioplasty. Dr. Dougherty is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 220, Suite 240, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    31+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Bill Phillips is the Chief Medical Officer for MUSC Health Midlands Division Columbia Medical Center Downtown/Northeast and Associate ICCE Chief for Heart \& Vascular Network Development. Prior to the acquisition by MUSC, he served as the President of Providence Heart and Vascular Institute at Providence Hospital in Columbia, SC. Dr Phillips practices both general and interventional cardiology. In his role as President, he served as the physician leader for the quality, patient safety, and clinical functions of the Heart and Vascular Institute with the primary responsibility in this role of driving the clinical and operational improvement of cardiovascular services for the hospital. Dr. Phillips previously served on the national Cardiovascular Physician Guidance Council for LifePoint Health, Brentwood, TN. Prior to joining Providence Hospital, he practiced at Columbia Heart Clinic for 14 years and served as the president of the practice the last four years of his tenure. During that time, he also served as the Chief of Cardiology at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia, SC.Dr. Phillips is a native of Hampton, SC and earned his BS in biology with honors at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He attended The Citadel on a football scholarship and was inducted into the National Football Foundation \& College Hall of Fame as a Scholar-Athlete his senior year. He received his medical degree from the University Of South Carolina School Of Medicine in Columbia, SC graduating magna cum laude and received the distinguished Dean's Award. He then completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center. While there he completed fellowships in both cardiology and interventional cardiology and served as Chief Cardiology Fellow for two years. He is board certified in Interventional Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease, and Internal Medicine. In addition to interventional cardiology, Dr. Phillips also performs Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Dr. Phillips is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a Fellow of the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention. He also currently serves as a member of the USC School of Medicine Alumni Board and as the physician at large for the South Carolina State Athletic Commission. He recently was named to the Columbia Metropolitan Premier Physicians for Interventional Cardiology. Dr Phillips has also published peer reviewed research in the field of vascular biology and participated in numerous clinical research trials in the field of cardiology during his career. Dr. Phillips is rated as an Experienced 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 Arrhythmias, Coronary Heart Disease, Atherosclerosis, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), and Aortic Valve Replacement. Dr. Phillips is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 220, Suite 240, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    17+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Huffman grew up in Columbia, SC before attending Yale University. He returned to Columbia for medical school at the University of South Carolina. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, followed by a general cardiology fellowship at Georgetown/Washington Hospital Center, and an interventional cardiology fellowship at New York University. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine, General Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Adult Echocardiography, and Vascular Interpretation. He currently serves as the American Heart Association South Carolina Midlands Board President. He has been in clinical practice as an Interventional Cardiologist in Columbia since 2016.In the heart catheterization laboratory, he performs diagnostic cardiac catheterizations to diagnose coronary artery disease and puts stents into narrowed coronary arteries and peripheral arteries. His clinical interests include coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, valvular heart disease, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Dr. Huffman is rated as an Experienced 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 Apoplexy, Atrial Fibrillation, Arrhythmias, Pacemaker Implantation, and Heart Bypass Surgery. Dr. Huffman is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology | Cardiology

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    26+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Brandon E. Brown is a general and interventional cardiologist with MUSC Health Heart \& Vascular. A graduate of Wofford College, he earned his medical degree at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. His internal medicine residency was completed at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC, and he completed his fellowship training in cardiovascular medicine at the Gill Heart Institute at the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center. Dr. Brown completed an additional year of fellowship training in Interventional Cardiology at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. Dr. Brown has 15 years experience in cardiovascular care, with special interest in management of coronary artery disease, complex coronary intervention, and preventive cardiology. He has extensive clinical research experience and places a high priority on practicing evidence based medicine. Dr. Brown is a member of the American College of Cardiology and board certified in both Cardiovascular Medicine and Interventional Cardiology. When not in the office, Dr. Brown enjoys spending time with his family, listening to music, playing golf and participating in CrossFit. Dr. Brown is rated as an Experienced 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 Apoplexy, Atrial Fibrillation, Arrhythmias, Pacemaker Implantation, and Angioplasty. Dr. Brown is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    MUSC Health Heart & Vascular Columbia Medical Park DT III

    1655 Bernardin Avenue, Suite 220, Suite 240, Suite 350, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    35+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Rodney Rhinehart, MD, specializes in Cardiology and is located in Columbia, SC. Dr. Rhinehart is rated as an Experienced 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 Sick Sinus Syndrome, Arrhythmias, Coronary Heart Disease, Pacemaker Implantation, and Heart Bypass Surgery. Dr. Rhinehart is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Patrick Hall is an Interventional Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Hall is rated as an Experienced 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 Mitral Valve Regurgitation, Apoplexy, Atrial Fibrillation, Angioplasty, and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). Dr. Hall is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Hall is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jennifer Feldman is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Feldman is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. She is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Arrhythmias, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Feldman is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Feldman is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Mark Stellingworth is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Stellingworth is rated as an Experienced 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 Coronary Heart Disease, Necrosis, Fainting, Arrhythmias, and Pacemaker Implantation. Dr. Stellingworth is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Stellingworth is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Michael Cryer is an Interventional Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Cryer is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His clinical expertise encompasses Pulmonary Edema, Heart Failure, Angina, and Heart Attack. Dr. Cryer is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Cryer is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Sultan Siddique is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Siddique is rated as an Experienced 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 Arrhythmias, Atrial Fibrillation, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Cardiac Ablation, and Pacemaker Implantation. Dr. Siddique is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Siddique is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 200

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 200, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    James Altman is an Interventional Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Altman is rated as an Experienced 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 Angina, Atherosclerosis, Coronary Heart Disease, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Altman is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Altman is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 200

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 200, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Donald Siddoway is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Siddoway is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. He is also highly rated in 18 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Atrial Fibrillation, Arrhythmias, Bidirectional Tachycardia, Pacemaker Implantation, and Cardiac Ablation. Dr. Siddoway is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Siddoway is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Interventional Cardiology

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Kurt Barringhaus is an Interventional Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Barringhaus is rated as an Experienced 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 Apoplexy, Heart Attack, Angina, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), and Angioplasty. Dr. Barringhaus is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Barringhaus is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Experienced in Heart Failure

    Prisma Health Cardiology – 8 Med Park 100

    8 Richland Medical Park Drive, Suite 100, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Michael Rofael is a Cardiologist practicing medicine in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Rofael is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. His clinical expertise encompasses Cardiogenic Shock, Heart Attack, Pericarditis, Cardiomyopathy, and Angioplasty. Dr. Rofael is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Rofael is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine | Geriatrics
    Experienced in Heart Failure
    Family Medicine | Geriatrics

    Prisma Health Senior Primary Care

    3010 Farrow Road, Suite 300, 
    Columbia, SC 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Stephanie Curry is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine and Geriatrics in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Curry is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Heart Failure. She is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Atrial Fibrillation, Alzheimer's Disease, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Hypertension. Dr. Curry is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Showing 1-20 of 117

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 Columbia,, SC?

    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 

    Read more about our Content Policy