.png){kind=small}
.png)
What does an echocardiogram show?
An echocardiogram (also known as an echo) is an ultrasound scan that creates live moving pictures of your heart. It allows your doctor to check:
- Heart structure: The size, shape, and thickness of your heart chambers.
- Pumping strength: How well your heart muscle squeezes and relaxes with every beat.
- Valve function: Whether the heart valves open smoothly and seal shut tightly without leaking.
- Blood flow: Using Doppler ultrasound, the scan maps the direction and speed of blood flowing through your heart.
The usual scan is a transthoracic echocardiogram also known as a TTE. During the scan, a cardiac sonographer will move an ultrasound probe across your chest to record the heart from several angles and take specialised pictures. A cardiologist will then review the pictures and provide a comprehensive report containing the findings for your referring doctor.
Why your doctor may recommend an echo
Your GP or specialist may request an echo to investigate symptoms such as shortness of breath, an unexpected heart murmur, unexplained fatigue, or dizziness during exercise.
It also helps to monitor existing conditions - such as high blood pressure, heart failure, or heart valve disease - to see how well prescribed treatments are working over time. The notes on your referral will guide the sonographer on which specific measurements to take.
Heart muscle and pumping
The scan measures how effectively the left ventricle (the heart's main pumping chamber) pumps blood out to the rest of your body with each beat. This key calculation is known as your ejection fraction (EF). The scan also looks at how smoothly the heart relaxes and refills between beats.
Valves and blood flow
Ultrasound quickly reveals whether any heart valves have narrowed (stenosis) or are failing to seal properly (regurgitation or leakage). Doppler sound waves help measure the exact severity of any flow issues. If you have known valve disease, regular echoes give your doctor a clear, ongoing comparison over time.
A standard resting echo can only see how the heart muscle moves and the structure of the heart. If your doctor suspects narrowed blood supply vessels, they may suggest a stress echocardiogram or another test.
30-45 minutes
Allow up to an hour for the appointment
Ultrasound imaging
Shows heart structure and blood flow
No sedation needed
You can usually go about your day afterwards
What happens during the appointment
- Getting comfortable:
You will be asked to undress from the waist up so the sonographer can access your chest area. A clean gown or covering will be provided for your privacy. - Attaching sensors:
Three small, sticky electrode patches are placed on your chest to record your heart's electrical rhythm while the images are captured. - The scan:
You will usually lie comfortably on your left side. The sonographer will apply a cool, water-based gel to your chest to help sound waves travel clearly, then glide a smooth hand-held probe over different spots. - Sounds and breathing:
You may hear pulsing or swishing sounds from the machine. This is just the Doppler measuring blood flow. The sonographer may occasionally ask you to change positions or hold your breath for a few seconds.
Pressure from the probe
To get the clearest possible images, the sonographer may sometimes need to press firmly against your ribs. If this feels uncomfortable or tender, please let your sonographer know - they can adjust their pressure or give you a brief break.
The sonographer may become quiet while concentrating on certain measurements. This is standard and does not mean anything is wrong. Once complete, your cardiologist will review the full recording before your doctor discusses the findings with you.
If you've been referred to Heartscope
To have an echocardiogram at Heartscope, you must have a valid referral from your doctor. Please have your referral ready when confirming your booking so our reception team can verify the test details and find a clinic nearest to you.
Fees
Depending on your referral and Medicare eligibility, your scan may be fully bulk-billed or incur a small out-of-pocket gap fee. For the latest fees, see the page for your clinic under Our Locations.
Understanding your results
Your cardiologist will compile the measurements and images into a detailed report and forward it directly to your referring doctor. Your doctor will discuss what the results mean in the context of your overall health and symptoms. If a follow up test is needed, your doctor might request an alternative imaging method.
Preparing for the appointment
- Normal routine: Eat, drink, and take your regular prescription medicines as usual, unless your doctor has specified otherwise.
- What to wear: Wear a separate top and bottom (such as a shirt and pants or skirt, rather than a dress or one-piece outfit), as you will need to undress from the waist up.
- Skin care: Please do not apply moisturiser, body lotion, or oils to your chest on the day of your scan, as these prevent the sticky electrodes from sticking properly.
- Chest hair: The sonographer may need to quickly shave a small patch of chest hair so the monitor patches stick securely.
Please note that only 1 person will be allowed into the appointment room due to space constraints. Family, children, guardians, friends and carers will only be allowed in if it's absolutely necessary. A language interpreter can come in with you.
What to bring
- Your GP or specialist referral letter and your Medicare card.
- A list of your current medications and dosages.
- Copies of any previous heart tests or scans, if available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Heartscope perform this scan?
Yes. Heartscope does transthoracic echocardiograms by referral. When you book, staff will confirm the clinic and appointment details for the test named on your referral.
Is an echo the same as an ECG?
No. An ECG records the electrical signals controlling your heartbeat, while an echocardiogram is an ultrasound showing the physical muscle, chambers, and moving valves. They answer different questions, and doctors frequently use them together.
Will an echo show whether I have blocked arteries?
Not directly. An echo shows if any section of the heart muscle isn't pumping normally, which can indicate past damage. However, it cannot directly visualise plaque inside coronary arteries. A stress test or CT scan is usually required to evaluate artery blockages.
Will I need an injection?
In the vast majority of cases, no. Rarely, if images are hard to see clearly through the chest wall, a special ultrasound contrast agent may be suggested. The clinician will discuss this with you beforehand if needed.
Can I return to work or drive afterwards?
Yes. The scan does not use any sedatives, so you can resume driving, working, and all daily activities immediately.
Is this the same as a transoesophageal echo?
No. A transoesophageal echo involves passing a small camera down the food pipe under mild sedation. Heartscope's standard echocardiogram is non-invasive and performed across the outside of your chest.
Ready to book?
.png)
Visit us
Cardiology clinics across Melbourne.
Echocardiogram
Ashburton
ashburton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Boronia
boronia
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Coolaroo
coolaroo
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Cranbourne
cranbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Dandenong
dandenong
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Keysborough
keysborough
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Lalor
lalor
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
M-City Clayton
clayton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Melbourne
melbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Moonee Ponds
moonee-ponds
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Mooroolbark
mooroolbark
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Pakenham
pakenham
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
St Albans
st-albans
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Sunnybank
sunnybank
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $100, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 |
| HeartBug | Privately billed |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Werribee
werribee
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Wheelers Hill
wheelers-hill
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
.svg){kind=small}
.svg)
