At Premier Heart Care, the laboratory tests we perform on site are blood tests that are used to diagnose and monitor treatment for heart and vascular disease. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Stevens will start with a thorough interview and physical exam, but he may determine that laboratory testing is required in order to identify underlying cardiovascular conditions. Results are available in several minutes in the office, avoiding a trip to the lab and then waiting days for the results.

A variety of blood tests are performed at Premier Heart Care to analyze a number of different factors. One of the most common set of blood tests we perform is the lipid profile, or cholesterol profile. The lipid profile is a group of blood tests that are used to determine the risk of heart disease. It includes HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Liver function testing is done as well. An individualized treatment plan will be developed based on the results of the lipid profile and other tests.

In addition, Pro time testing to assess the adequacy of therapy with Coumadin anticoagulation is available. Lastly BNP testing is done to determine if the etiology of a patient’s shortness of breath is of cardiac etiology.