Information for patients

What happens when you are
referred to Aro Manawa?

When your referral to Aro Manawa is received and accepted, you will be contacted by us to organise an appointment time.

During your appointment you will meet with our specialist sonography team. They will explain the services you are receiving and the purpose of the assessment and/or services being provided.

The study will be reviewed within 48 hours by our expert imaging cardiologist and a formal report will be sent to the referring doctor following this.

What to expect

You will be provided with instructions about how to prepare for the test when the appointment is confirmed. On the day of your appointment, you'll be asked to remove clothing from your upper body and change into a medical gown.

When you enter the testing room, sticky patches are attached to your chest. These sensors, called electrodes, check your heart rhythm. Next, your sonographer will place gel on your chest and press a small device called a transducer against your chest over your heart, moving it back and forth. This picks up and sends out sound waves, which enable a picture of your heart to be created and shown on the monitor.

For most of the test, you’ll lie on your left side. You may need to lie on your back, and to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.

What happens after my scan?

Most echocardiograms take less than an hour. After the scan is done a specialist echocardiologist
will review your scan and return a detailed report to the doctor who referred you and your GP within
48 hours.

Fees and payment

Please note that the costs for services will be expected on the day of your appointment.

If you are insured with Southern Cross your fee will be covered.

For those with medical insurance with another provider, an invoice will be provided for reimbursement.

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