Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

Most studies do not require a referral. Call us at (212) 888-8400 and we will let you know exactly what you need before you come in.

Question 2

Can I get a same-day appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — same-day appointments are our specialty. We are open 7 days a week with early morning and evening hours. Call us and we will confirm availability.

Question 3

Are you open on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are open Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, in addition to Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Question 4

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

The fastest way is to call us at (212) 888-8400. You can also submit a request through our online form and we will call you back promptly.

Question 5

What should I bring to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, and any relevant prior medical records or imaging if available. If a physician referred you, bring the referral form. We will take care of the rest.

Question 6

How long will I be there?

Accepted Answer

Most studies take 20–45 minutes. Plan for about an hour total, including check-in and your time with Dr. Oboler to review results.

Question 7

Is the procedure painful?

Accepted Answer

No. Ultrasound and echocardiography are completely non-invasive and painless. A small probe is moved over your skin with gel — there are no needles or radiation involved.

Question 8

Do I need to fast or prepare in advance?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the study. Most studies require no preparation. The abdominal aorta sonogram requires fasting for 4–6 hours beforehand. We will tell you exactly what to do when you book.

Question 9

How quickly will I get my results?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Oboler reads and signs every study the same day. You will have your results before you leave, and we will fax them to your referring physician the same day.

Question 10

Who reads my imaging?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Lara Oboler personally reads and signs every single study. Your images are never sent to an outsourced reading center.

Question 11

Will my results be sent to my doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We fax your results directly to your referring physician the same day. If you do not have a referring physician, we can provide you with a full written report to bring to your next appointment.

Question 12

Do you accept my insurance?

Accepted Answer

Heartwell does not accept insurance. We are an out-of-network private provider and cannot guarantee reimbursement.

Question 13

What if I do not have insurance?

Accepted Answer

We offer transparent self-pay rates that are significantly lower than hospital or ER rates. We will give you a price before you book — no surprise bills. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.

Question 14

Is it cheaper than going to the ER?

Accepted Answer

Almost always, yes — and considerably so. An ER visit for imaging typically runs $2,000 or more after facility fees. Our pricing is a fraction of that, with no facility fees, no four-hour wait, and same-day results.

Question 15

What is the difference between coming here vs. going to the ER?

Accepted Answer

The ER is the right choice for true life-threatening emergencies. For urgent imaging to rule out a DVT, evaluate your heart, or assess your arteries — we are faster, far less expensive, and much less stressful. You will have results the same day, not after a 4–8 hour wait.

Question 16

When should I go to the ER instead?

Accepted Answer

Go to the ER immediately if you are experiencing severe chest pain with difficulty breathing, sudden arm or jaw pain, signs of a stroke (sudden facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), or any symptom you believe is immediately life-threatening. When in doubt, call 911 first.

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