Exceptional heart care, rooted in our community

What is this test?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of your heart using small electrode stickers placed on your chest, arms, and legs. It is quick, painless, and takes only a few minutes. It helps your doctor assess your heart rhythm and identify any electrical abnormalities.

How to prepare

• Bring your valid OHIP card and a signed requisition from your physician.
• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• Do not apply cream, lotion, or oil to your chest — this interferes with electrode adhesion.
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to your chest.

What is this test?

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to produce detailed images of your heart's structure and function — including the chambers, valves, and pumping function. It is safe, painless, and does not use radiation.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card and a signed requisition.
• Arrive 15 minutes early.
• No special dietary preparation required.
• Do not apply cream or lotion to your chest.
• Continue all medications unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

What is this test?

An exercise stress test monitors your heart's electrical activity, heart rate, and blood pressure while you walk on a treadmill that gradually increases in speed and incline. It helps identify coronary artery disease, exercise-induced arrhythmias, and overall exercise capacity.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card and a signed requisition.
• Arrive 15 minutes early.
• Wear comfortable, supportive footwear and loose clothing.
• Do not apply cream or lotion to your chest.
• Bring a complete list of your current medications.
• Beta-blockers: Speak with your referring physician about whether to hold this medication 48 hours before — never stop without medical guidance.
• Avoid a heavy meal for at least 3 hours beforehand, and avoid caffeine for 24 hours prior.

During the test

Our technologist places ECG electrodes on your chest and records a resting ECG and blood pressure before you begin. You are in full control — inform the technologist immediately if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

What is this test?

A stress echocardiogram combines treadmill exercise with ultrasound imaging taken before and immediately after exertion. This allows your cardiologist to see how your heart performs under stress and identify areas of reduced blood flow or abnormal wall motion.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card and a signed requisition.
• Arrive 15 minutes early.
• Wear comfortable footwear and exercise-appropriate clothing.
• Do not apply cream or lotion to your upper body.
• Bring your medication list. Discuss beta-blocker management with your referring doctor 48 hours in advance.
• Avoid caffeine for 24 hours and heavy meals for 3 hours beforehand.

What is this test?

A dobutamine stress echocardiogram is for patients who cannot exercise on a treadmill. Dobutamine — a medication that temporarily raises heart rate — is delivered through an IV to mimic the effects of exercise. Echocardiogram images are captured throughout.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card or government-issued photo ID, and a signed requisition.
• Arrive 15 minutes early. Plan for the full duration.
• You will sign a consent form before the test begins.
• Do not eat or drink (except water) for at least 4 hours beforehand.
• Avoid caffeine for 24 hours prior.
• Discuss your current medications with your physician — some may need adjustment.

What to expect

An IV is placed in your arm. The dobutamine dose is gradually increased while our team monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and echocardiogram images continuously. You will be observed for a period after the infusion before going home.

What is this test?

A Holter monitor is a portable device that records your heart rhythm continuously for 24 hours up to 14 days. It detects rhythm abnormalities that may not appear on a standard ECG — particularly those occurring during daily activity or sleep.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card and a signed requisition.
• Arrive 15 minutes early — setup takes approximately 15 minutes.
• Do not apply cream, lotion, or powder to your chest.
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing that opens at the front.

During the monitoring period

• 24 and 48-hour monitors: Showering is not permitted. Sponge baths may be used.
• 72-hour, 7-day, and 14-day monitors: Showering is permitted — specific instructions will be provided.
• Continue your normal daily activities. Keep a brief symptom diary with time stamps.

Returning the device

Please return your Holter monitor to our clinic at the end of the monitoring period to ensure timely analysis and reporting.

What is this test?

A cuff worn on your arm that automatically records blood pressure every 30 minutes during the day and every hour overnight — providing a complete 24-hour profile including patterns during sleep.

Important note about coverage

This service is not covered by OHIP. A fee of $50.00 is payable at the time of your appointment.

How to prepare

• Bring your OHIP card and a signed requisition.
• Wear a short-sleeved shirt or one with a loose, rollable sleeve.
• Continue usual medications and activities throughout the monitoring period.
• When the cuff inflates, keep your arm relaxed and still.