• Consultation: The process typically begins with a discussion during which your healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your personal health, family medical history, and lifestyle habits.

• Physical Examination: You can expect to have your blood pressure checked, and if recent measurements are unavailable, your weight and height may also be recorded.

• Blood Draw: A blood sample might be collected to assess key indicators such as cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and other critical markers.

• Guidance and Recommendations: Once the evaluation is complete, your healthcare provider will review the findings with you, explaining any identified risk factors. Based on the results, they may recommend lifestyle adjustments, medical treatments, or additional diagnostic tests.

• Follow-Up: Depending on your assessment outcomes, you may be advised to schedule regular follow-up appointments, begin medication, or participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program.

A heart risk assessment is a crucial component of proactive healthcare, empowering you to understand your personal risks and make informed decisions about your heart health. Whether you have a family history of heart disease or simply wish to adopt preventive measures, a heart risk assessment can illuminate your cardiovascular status and steer you toward a heart-healthy future. Early detection of potential risks leads to more effective management and prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Our Ambient Healthcare location can conduct a heart risk assessment using advanced diagnostics such as:

• Blood Pressure Monitoring
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Ultrasounds
• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
• Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Score

After your assessment, your care team at Ambient Healthcare will work with you to optimize your treatment plan. This may include adjustments to medications such as:

• Statin Drugs
• Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors
• Aspirin
• Nitrates

Q: What is the main purpose of a heart risk assessment?

A: The primary goal of a heart risk assessment is to evaluate an individual’s likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). By examining both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, it enables you and your healthcare provider to pinpoint potential threats to your heart health and take early preventive or corrective actions.

Q: How often should I get a heart risk assessment?

A: The recommended frequency for heart risk assessments depends on factors such as age, current health status, and family history. Generally, it is advisable for adults to have an initial assessment in their early to mid-thirties, followed by periodic evaluations as suggested by their healthcare provider. Individuals with a family history of heart disease or other significant risk factors might need to begin assessments earlier and undergo them more frequently.

Q: Is the heart risk assessment painful or invasive?

A: Most components of a heart risk assessment—including a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and blood tests—are non-invasive and cause minimal discomfort. Additional tests, such as an ECG or stress test, are also designed to be as comfortable and non-invasive as possible.

Q: Can I lower my heart disease risk after the assessment?

A: Absolutely! One of the key benefits of a heart risk assessment is that it identifies areas where improvements can be made. If modifiable risk factors like an unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, or smoking are detected, you can take steps to adjust these habits and reduce your risk. In some cases, your healthcare provider may also recommend medications or other interventions to manage the identified risks.

Q: Are there any risks associated with the heart risk assessment itself?

A: The basic heart risk assessment—which includes reviewing your medical history, performing a physical examination, and conducting blood tests—poses minimal risk. However, it’s important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can offer detailed guidance on the safety and necessity of each component of the assessment.