Echocardiogram in Westmead
Expert Cardiac Ultrasound — On-Site at Heartcare Sydney
Reported by Dr Reza Moazzeni, MD, FRACP
Book an Echocardiogram →What Is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram — commonly called an "echo" or heart ultrasound — is a non-invasive, painless test that uses sound waves to produce real-time images of your heart. A trained sonographer places a small handheld probe on your chest to visualise the heart's chambers, valves, and blood flow patterns.
Unlike CT scans or X-rays, echocardiography uses no radiation. It is one of the most commonly performed cardiac investigations and provides essential information about how well your heart is pumping, whether your valves are functioning normally, and whether there are any structural abnormalities.
At Heartcare Sydney in Westmead, echocardiograms are performed on-site and interpreted by a specialist cardiologist — meaning you can often have your consultation and imaging done in a single visit, with results discussed on the same day.
For a detailed guide covering indications, stroke evaluation, and cardio-oncology monitoring, see our comprehensive Echocardiogram Explained resource.
Heartcare Sydney operates Sydney's first GE Vivid Pioneer — the latest generation of GE's cardiac ultrasound platform. The Vivid Pioneer delivers exceptional image quality with AI-enhanced automation, enabling faster and more accurate cardiac assessments.
This means higher-resolution imaging of heart valves, chambers, and blood flow — particularly beneficial in technically challenging patients. Advanced features include automated strain analysis (GLS) and enhanced Doppler, supporting precise diagnosis across a wide range of cardiac conditions.
What to Expect During Your Echocardiogram
No fasting or special preparation is required. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to remove your top and put on a gown. Small adhesive electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm during the test.
You will lie on your left side on an examination table. A water-based gel is applied to your chest, and the sonographer uses a handheld probe to capture real-time images of your heart. You may be asked to change position or hold your breath briefly for clearer views. The test is painless — at most you may feel mild pressure from the probe.
A standard echocardiogram takes approximately 30 minutes. If combined with a consultation, allow around 60 minutes for the full appointment.
The gel and electrodes are removed, and you can return to normal activities immediately. Your cardiologist will review the images and discuss findings with you — often on the same day if combined with a consultation. A detailed report is sent to your referring doctor.
Billing & Referrals
If you attend for a stand-alone echocardiogram (no consultation), the echocardiogram can be bulk billed for eligible patients — meaning no out-of-pocket cost.
Stress echocardiography is not bulk billed. All fees are explained before your appointment.
A valid referral from your GP or specialist is required for all consultations. This ensures you receive the appropriate Medicare rebate. If you need just an echocardiogram without a consultation, a referral for echocardiogram is still required.
If you have questions about the process, call us on 02 8401 9598 and we will guide you.
Ready to book your echocardiogram? We are located opposite Westmead Hospital, 200 metres from Westmead Station.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for an echocardiogram in Westmead?
+Yes — a referral from your GP or specialist is required for all consultations and investigations at Heartcare Sydney. This ensures you receive the appropriate Medicare rebate. If you are unsure about your referral, call us on 02 8401 9598 and we will guide you.
Can an echocardiogram be bulk billed?
+If you attend for a stand-alone echocardiogram without a consultation, the test can be bulk billed for eligible patients — meaning no out-of-pocket cost. Consultations are privately billed with a Medicare rebate, and stress echocardiography is not bulk billed. We will explain all fees before your appointment.
Is an echocardiogram painful?
+No — it is completely non-invasive and painless. The test uses ultrasound waves (similar to a pregnancy scan) and does not involve radiation, needles, or any discomfort. At most, you may feel mild pressure from the probe on your chest.
How long does an echocardiogram take?
+A standard resting echocardiogram takes approximately 30 minutes.
Do I need to fast or prepare before an echocardiogram?
+No fasting or special preparation is needed for a standard echocardiogram. Simply wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and allow adequate time for your appointment. If you are having a stress echocardiogram instead, there are specific preparation steps — see our stress echo page for details.
When will I get my results?
+If your echocardiogram is combined with a consultation, Dr Moazzeni will typically review and discuss findings with you on the same day. A detailed written report is also sent to your referring doctor for their records.
What is the difference between an echocardiogram and a stress echocardiogram?
+A resting echocardiogram images your heart at rest, assessing structure, valve function, and pump strength. A stress echocardiogram adds exercise (treadmill) to evaluate how your heart performs under physical stress — it is primarily used to detect coronary artery disease. Both tests are available at our Westmead clinic.
Want to learn more about echocardiography? Read our detailed guide: Echocardiogram Explained →