Cardiology

The Cardiology service in Primary and Secondary care is a service that strives to improve the quality of life of patients and their families facing risk factors for heart disease, and existing heart conditions.

Description

Visiting cardiologists based in Christchurch attend clinics in Timaru three times a month. A Timaru hospital physician provides cardiology care, includes consulting on referrals for investigations and treatments.

Cardiology clinical nurse specialist at Timaru hospital provides inpatient education (phase I) and cardiac rehabilitation programmes (Phase II) in addition to nurse led clinics along side the visiting cardiologist.

The community cardiology clinical nurse specialists work collaboratively with the GP’s and practice nurses, running primary prevention screening programmes, continuing to assess, and monitor people in their home in all rural locations. Nurse led clinics occur are offered in Twizel, Waimate including fortnightly clinics at the premises of the local Maori health care provider.

Education and empowerment of patients to promote self care management of heart conditions is the primary goal. The Clinical Nurse Specialists are also involved in the Multi Condition Rehabilitation programme held in various locations through out South Canterbury.

All services work in collaboration with the medication investigation unit and echocardiogram sonographers.

Services provided include:

  • Risk factor management
  • Symptom assessment and support
  • Care at home
  • Telephone advice
  • Psychological l support and care
  • Family support
  • Advanced Care Planning
  • Ongoing education to patients and other health professionals
  • Health Promotion alongside the Heart Foundation, and other Non-government Organisations.

Location

For non urgent referrals, information  and support

Community Clinical Nurse Specialist Cardiology
18, Woollcombe Street, Timaru
Phone: 03 687 2318 Monday to Friday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

For non urgent referrals, information and support

Timaru Hospital Secondary Services
Clinical Nurse Specialist Cardiology
Phone: 03 6974 365

Referral Information

You can access our service by contacting the above number, or you can ask to be referred by your doctor or practice nurse, your hospital specialist or nurse.  We also accept referrals from other hospitals, other health professionals and government and community agencies.