Paediatric cardiology clinic
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral form for the examination?
For a first visit, yes — a referral form (in Slovak: výmenný lístok), paper or electronic, together with a copy of the medical report from the specialist who recommended the examination. For a follow-up scheduled by our clinic you need neither. However, if more than 12 months pass from the booking date, or if you come earlier than we recommended, a new referral form is required.
Up to what age do you see patients?
We see children and adolescents who have not yet reached their 19th birthday on the day of the examination — the latest possible appointment is the day before the 19th birthday.
Which health insurance companies do you have contracts with?
All of them — Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa (code 25), Dôvera (24) and Union (27).
How much does an examination cost?
An examination based on a referral form from a doctor who has a contract with your insurer is fully covered and you pay nothing. If the examination is recommended by a doctor without a contract with your insurer — a sports medicine physician, for example — your insurer will not cover it, and it is paid for by the patient or their legal guardian according to the current price list. The same applies to examinations requested by the patient themselves.
How do I book, and how long is the wait?
You can book online through our scheduling system, or by phone on +421 2 6428 2456 during clinic hours. We book patients for a specific date and time, so waiting in the clinic is short.
Available slots are shown in our scheduling system. The usual wait for an appointment is about 2 months, but slots free up continuously, as patients can manage their own appointment online and cancel or move it themselves.
Is an echocardiogram painful?
No. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It is completely painless and involves no radiation of any kind. Your child lies on a couch, gel is applied to the chest and the doctor moves a probe across it. The only thing your child feels is the cool gel. The examination takes about 10–15 minutes.
Can a teenager come to the appointment alone?
No. Patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or other legal guardian.
What if my child has problems outside clinic hours?
Our clinic does not provide an emergency service. In the event of sudden, serious symptoms call 155 or 112 immediately. Outside clinic hours, contact the after-hours medical service for children and adolescents covering your area.