Definition Of Cardiologist

A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of problems related to the cardiovascular system---the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologychannel.com reports that cardiology is a sub-specialty of internal medicine.

Education

• Cardiologists receive an extended education that includes medical school, a three-year residency in general internal medicine and an additional three years of training in cardiovascular disease medicine.

Certification

• Cardiologists must receive board certification in both internal medicine and cardiology from the American Board of Internal Medicine. Board certification entails meeting the educational requirements as well as passing a comprehensive examination.

Duties

• The duties of a cardiologist vary, but can include management of hypertension, congenital heart diseases and condition, congestive heart failure, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), and heart attacks.

Diagnostic Procedures

• There are a number of diagnostic procedures that cardiologists must be competent at performing, including the evaluation of X-rays, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging), and computerized tomography (CT) scans.

Working Life

• Cardiologists may work in either hospital settings or private practice. They generally serve in consulting roles and assist other physicians in determining and managing the appropriate treatment for patients exhibiting cardiovascular problems.