Providing comprehensive cardiac care and peace of mind

SERVICES

Cardiac Catheterisation and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Cardiac catheterisation also known as a “coronary angiogram” is a specialised invasive procedure which involves the insertion of a cardiac catheter via your wrist or groin to your coronary arteries located at the aorta just above your heart.

What to expect:

This procedure involves injecting these coronary arteries directly with contrast dye whilst x-rays are emitted from the cathlab equipment enabling the cardiologist to “see” your arteries in real time.

If you are found to have severe coronary disease, in some instances, your cardiologist will be able to “fix” these blockages using guidewires, balloons and/or stents (PCI). Sometimes more information is required and other equipment may be used such as a pressure wire (FFR), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) or optical coherance tomography (OCT). In some instances, severe or complex coronary artery disease cannot be fixed with stents and you may be referred to our Sydney based surgical colleagues for cardiac surgery.

Preparation for a diagnostic coronary angiography +/- PCI includes fasting from midnight (taking your usual medications with a small amount of water that morning is ok). You will need someone to drop you off and pick you up as you cannot drive after having sedation. If you have a stent implanted you will most likely stay overnight for observation before going home the next day.

Check in with the bookings clerk at PMBH if you are unsure of your appointment time or preparation requirements on: (02) 5524 2981.

What to bring:

  • Current medications (including Webster pak if relevant)
  • Any relevant paperwork
  • Any recent pathology or radiology test results
  • Overnight bag (in case you require an admission)

What to wear:

Comfortable loose fitting clothing. A hospital gown will be provided for you in the recovery area.

Contact us to schedule your appointment today

PHONE (02) 6584 3548

New patients are always welcome. A referral is necessary for your first cardiac consultation.

For general enquiries relating to bookings, referrals and patient care, please email
admin@coastcardiology.com.au

For all other correspondence, including feedback and employment opportunities at Coast Cardiology, please email
generalmanager@coastcardiology.com.au

Major event sponsors of the Beach 2 Brother Trail Running Festival, with proceeds raised proudly supporting Hastings Little Wishes.

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Jaki Bowden

MEDICAL RECEPTIONST
Jaki has always been a people person and has been working in medical administration and reception since 2010. Working at the Private Hospital and specialist practices over the years she has gained invaluable knowledge and disseminates her knowledge to give a better understanding of processes to the unknown.

Jaki finds delight talking with our diverse range of patients about their life experiences. She is an active person, who you may see around town walking her dog and enjoys sighting the wildlife of Port Macquarie.

Jill McKittrick

MEDICAL RECEPTIONST
Jill has been working in medical administration and reception for over twelve years which has enabled her to gain a vast and diverse skill set. Over this time, Jill has gained her knowledge across both general and specialist practices and she is keen to share this experience with her colleagues and patients at Coast Cardiology.

Jill is excited to provide all patients with an efficient and friendly experience in their dealings with Coast Cardiology. Jill and her family have lived in Ellenborough, west of Port Macquarie, for over twenty years and she looks forward to greeting you all when you visit the practice.

Marella Edwards

MEDICAL RECEPTIONST/NURSING ASSISTANT
A Lifelong Passion for Helping others.

Marella’s journey began during high school, where she volunteered working at a local nursing home. From this experience, Marella then felt drawn to the healthcare field.

Growing up in Port Macquarie, she was surrounded by natural beauty and a strong sense of community. Her caring nature and desire to help others led her to pursue a career in healthcare.

Marella has medical knowledge and training in Electrocardiogram (ECG's) Holter Monitors and much more, which she uses to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Playing an integral role in patient care, the information she provides helps doctors determine appropriate treatments and courses of action.

Marella feels fortunate to do work that is both personally fulfilling and contributes value to the community. Marella’s path in healthcare has truly been a ‘hearts calling’.

Jaala Buckmaster

OFFICE MANAGER

Jaala is an experienced and dedicated professional with over 14 years of experience in the specialist medical field as a medical secretary and receptionist, with 13 of those years focused specifically on cardiology. Her passion for this field began when she started working as an administrator in cardiology right after completing high school, and she has continued to develop her expertise and knowledge ever since.

As a senior medical administrator, Jaala has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the cardiology field. She has received training in Electrocardiogram (ECG's) and Holter Monitors and is always ready to assist patients within her practice. Her attention to detail and patient-focused approach have earned her a reputation for providing high-quality care and service.

Jaala has lived in the Camden Haven for the past 16 years, establishing a long-term home for her young family. She takes pride in supporting the local community in various endeavors, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact wherever she goes.

As an Office Manager, Jaala's experience, knowledge, and dedication is invaluable. She is detail-oriented, patient-focused, and has a deep understanding of the medical field. She is eager to bring her skills and expertise to any new challenge and is committed to making a meaningful contribution to her new team.

Michelle Hoy

CARDIAC SONOGRAPHER/TECHNICIAN

Michelle began her career in cardiology in 1996 and was lucky enough to move to Port Macquarie 20 years ago.

Michelle completed her bachelor degree at Wollongong University. She continued her cardiology training at Westmead Hospital, where Michelle was involved in working with pacemakers in the cardiac labs in addition to being involved in cardiac research. At Coast Cardiology, she performs echoes, stress testing and has a special interest in electrophysiology.

Michelle is an enthusiastic member of the team and enjoys supporting the community of the Mid North Coast.

Karen Hillcoat

CARDIAC SONOGRAPHER
Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (Cardiac), AMS

Obtaining her Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (Cardiac) in 1994, Karen has been instrumental in establishing imaging cardiac investigation services in the region. Karen has been a cardiac sonographer for almost 40 years and has been an examiner for the Queensland Ultrasound of Technology course. For more than 20 years , Karen has been performing echoes, stress echoes and other cardiac investigations in the Mid North Coast area.

Committed to supporting the local community, Karen has also been involved with an indigenous cardiac clinic in Kempsey since 2017.

In addition, Karen regularly attends cardiac conferences, learning the latest developments in diagnostic cardiac ultrasound, and has organised and presented at regional professional meetings.

Karen is passionate about teaching echocardiography and has been actively involved in the training of echo technicians and medical students, as well as doctors at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital and other hospitals.

Melinda Prados

BUSINESS MANAGER

Melinda oversees the business operations at Coast Cardiology. With two postgraduate degrees and over 15 years of corporate, business and retail financial management experience, Mel ensures we continue to function efficiently and safely - delivering the best possible care for our patients keeping costs as low as possible without compromising quality of care.

Mel moved to Port Macquarie 11 years ago and enjoys spending time in the community with her young family. She is actively involved in long distance triathlon events and promoting healthy living to improve long term health outcomes.