Which Doctor Should You See for Heart or Vascular Problems?
Last Updated
Oct 14, 2025
Knowing which doctor to see for a heart or vascular condition isn’t always straightforward. Today’s healthcare system has many different types of providers, and most focus on specific areas of care. A 2023 study found that about 63% of physicians work in specialties, while only about 37% practice in primary care. With so many specialists, it’s no surprise that patients often wonder: Should I see a cardiologist, a vascular doctor, or someone else?
Types of Heart and Vascular Specialists
f you have a heart or blood vessel condition, your care team may include more than one type of specialist. You may also see nurse practitioners (NPs) or physician assistants (PAs), who help answer questions, manage day-to-day care, and coordinate follow-up.
Primary Care Provider (PCP)
Your PCP is usually the first stop for new symptoms. They:
Check blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors
Order basic tests
Refer you to a cardiologist or vascular specialist if needed
Cardiologist (Heart Doctor)
A cardiologist is a doctor who treats conditions of the heart and major blood vessels, including:
Coronary artery disease
Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
Valve disorders
High blood pressure or cholesterol
Recovery after a heart attack
Cardiologists often order specialized tests, adjust treatment plans, and work closely with PCPs and other specialists.
Vascular Medicine Specialist vs. Vascular Surgeon
Many people ask: What’s the difference between a vascular specialist and a vascular surgeon?
Vascular Medicine Specialist: Focuses on diagnosing and managing blood vessel conditions outside the heart and brain. They treat peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE) with medications, lifestyle guidance, and nonsurgical care.
Vascular Surgeon: Performs procedures like stents, bypass surgery, or vessel repairs to improve blood flow. Unlike vascular medicine specialists, they provide both medical and surgical treatment.
Both types of vascular doctors also help patients manage risk factors long-term.
Electrophysiologist (Heart Rhythm Specialist)
Electrophysiologists (EPs) are cardiologists with extra training in heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) such as atrial fibrillation. They may recommend:
Medications
Catheter ablation
Pacemakers or defibrillators
See an EP if you have unexplained fainting, dizziness, or irregular heartbeats.
Interventional Cardiologist
An interventional cardiologist specializes in minimally invasive, catheter-based procedures to treat:
Blocked arteries
Heart valve problems
Some cases of PAD
They often insert stents or perform valve replacement without open-heart surgery.
Heart Failure Specialist
A heart failure specialist is a cardiologist with advanced training in managing complex or advanced heart failure. They adjust medications, order advanced tests, and guide decisions about heart pumps or transplant when needed.
Pulmonologist
A pulmonologist treats lung conditions that affect the heart, such as:
Pulmonary hypertension
They often work alongside cardiologists when breathing problems also strain the heart.
Other Specialists for Blood Clot Care
If you’ve had a blood clot, other doctors may also be part of your care team:
Hematologists: Focus on blood disorders and clotting problems
Interventional Radiologists: Use imaging and minimally invasive procedures to treat clots
Physical Therapists: Play a vital role in identifying symptoms and assisting in recovery from blood clots
How to Choose the Right Specialist
Here are steps to help guide your decision:
Start with your PCP – They know your health history and can refer you to the right specialist.
Check your insurance directory – Find in-network providers to avoid unexpected bills.
Verify credentials – Look for board certification.
Ask about experience – Especially if you need a procedure or have a complex diagnosis.
Consider communication style – Choose someone who explains things clearly and listens to your concerns.
Look at access and location – Ask about appointment wait times, travel distance, and virtual visit options.
Get a second opinion – Especially for major health decisions like surgery or long-term treatment.
Did You Know? Team-Based Heart and Vascular Care
Some U.S. medical centers offer heart and vascular programs where cardiologists, vascular surgeons, and electrophysiologists work together in one team. These programs can be especially helpful if your condition involves both the heart and blood vessels.
Where to Find a Specialist
Ask your primary care provider for a referral
Use Medicare’s Care Compare tool to search for hospitals and specialty programs
Visit the Society for Vascular Medicine’s directory to find vascular medicine specialists
If outside the U.S., check with your local health system or national health service
FAQs
Q: What type of doctor treats blood clots? A: Blood clot care often involves vascular medicine specialists, hematologists, or interventional radiologists.
Q: Cardiologist vs. vascular specialist—what’s the difference?
A: Cardiologists focus mainly on the heart, while vascular specialists treat blood vessel conditions outside the heart and brain.
Q: When should I see a heart doctor instead of my PCP?A: See a cardiologist if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, irregular heartbeats, or ongoing problems with blood pressure or cholesterol.
