A cardiologist is a physician who treats heart diseases and defects as well as providing preventative care and diagnosis of the cardiovascular system. There are many different types of cardiologists – some focus more on diagnosis, prevention, and medications, while other cardiologists are more procedure-oriented, performing angioplasties and other life-saving operations.
There are a variety of nursing careers in the field of cardiology. If you’re interested in working in a medical office environment, you could work in the medical office of a cardiologist. Or, if you prefer to work in a hospital, you could be part of a cardiac care unit. Additionally, if you’d like to become an advanced practice nurse, you may also want to consider becoming certified as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in cardiology.
There are several types of cardiovascular technicians and technologists who work in the field of cardiology. Some are diagnostic and become experts in running the EKG machine. Other technologists are involved with nuclear cardiology, working the equipment which helps to take computerized images of the heart. Additionally, some technicians work in the cath lab and assist cardiologists with more invasive procedures.
- Clinical Cardiac Perfusionist
- Cardiovascular technician/technologist
Cardio-thoracic surgeons perform heart bypass surgeries and other cardiovascular surgeries.
The American Heart Association is a non-profit organization that advocates heart health to patients and healthcare providers as well. The American Heart Association employs a variety of health professionals, as well as some administrative, financial, and other business or non-clinical workers who may or may not have a professional background in healthcare. This could be a great option for someone who has a passion for heart health, but who does not necessarily possess a medical or nursing degree.
Cardiology Professional Associations
If you would like to learn more about the vast field of cardiovascular health and all of the options and careers available to you, refer to the cardiological professional associations and societies for more information.
