Stress Echocardiography

A stress echocardiogram assists with investigation of symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and fatigue. It is helpful in monitoring coronary artery disease, particularly after having coronary surgery or stenting. This test might also be requested by your doctor if you have risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of heart disease.

To access this service you must have a referral from a medical provider - Appointment necessary.

We must see the referral before an appointment can be made. It can be dropped off, faxed to  53204713  or emailed  to diagnostic@bhs.org.au - The patient name, date of birth, phone number and address must be included on the referral.

If using fax or email, you will be contacted via mail or phone call as appropriate with the appointment details.

Please note: You must be able to walk unassisted on a treadmill to perform this test.

Preparing for your appointment

There may be medications you need to stop taking prior to your appointment, you will be provided with a list along with your appointment details.

Do not drink alcohol on the day of your test.

Do not smoke for 1 hour prior to the test.

Avoid caffeine 2 hours prior to the test (including coffee, tea, chocolate, cola or energy drinks).

Avoid a heavy meal prior to your test, a small meal or snack is fine.

Make sure you are wearing comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking (no thongs, high heels or work boots).

This is a Medicare rebateable service which is bulk billed and no additional fees are charged in most cases.

Unfortunately, testing for a Commercial Driver’s licence or Pilot’s licence is not covered by Medicare and there is a fee payable. 

How long will I be on the treadmill for?

You will walk on the treadmill until your heart rate reaches the target rate or you are unable to continue.

How fast will the treadmill be?

The treadmill starts off at a slow walk and will get faster and steeper every few minutes. You will be closely monitored and the treadmill will not go faster than your capability.

There may be medications you need to stop taking prior to your appointment, you will be provided with a list along with your appointment details.

Do not drink alcohol on the day of your test.

Do not smoke for 1 hour prior to the test.

Avoid caffeine 2 hours prior to the test (including coffee, tea, chocolate, cola or energy drinks).

Avoid a heavy meal prior to your test, a small meal or snack is fine.

Make sure you are wearing comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking (no thongs, high heels or work boots).