Stress Echocardiogram in Westmead
Cardiologist-led stress echocardiography on the latest GE Vivid Pioneer ultrasound system, with rapid access for symptomatic patients and same-day discussion of results. Located directly opposite Westmead Hospital, serving Parramatta and Western Sydney.
Book an Appointment Urgent referrals: call (02) 8401 9598What is a stress echocardiogram?
A stress echocardiogram — often called a "stress echo" — combines a treadmill exercise test with an ultrasound of your heart. Images are taken at rest and again immediately after exercise, allowing the cardiologist to see how your heart muscle and valves perform under physiological load. There is no radiation and no intravenous contrast for a standard exercise stress echo.
For a full explanation of the procedure, what the results mean, and how stress echo compares with other cardiac tests, see our comprehensive stress echocardiogram guide.
Why your doctor may have requested one
Chest pain or breathlessness on exertion
To investigate whether exercise-related symptoms are due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Valve disease assessment
To measure how the heart and its valves behave under load — particularly in aortic stenosis or mitral valve disease.
Risk assessment before non-cardiac surgery
To evaluate cardiac reserve and stratify perioperative risk before major surgery.
Cardiologist-led stress echo in the heart of Westmead
Stress echocardiograms at Heartcare Sydney are performed and interpreted by a consultant cardiologist — not delegated to a technician with a separate report posted later. You meet the cardiologist, the test is supervised in real time, and your results are discussed before you leave the clinic.
Performed and reported by a cardiologist
Dr Moazzeni personally supervises every stress echo. Image acquisition and interpretation happen in the same room, in the same visit — no batched reporting and no delays.
Findings discussed before you leave
No waiting on a posted report. The cardiologist reviews findings with you immediately and advises on next steps, with a written report sent to your GP.
Urgent appointments accommodated
Symptomatic patients and urgent GP referrals are prioritised. Please call (02) 8401 9598 to discuss urgent appointment requests.
Latest GE Vivid Pioneer ultrasound
High-resolution images and advanced quantitation, including strain analysis where indicated. The same imaging quality you would expect at a major teaching hospital.
Across from Westmead Hospital
Office 33, Level 3, 163–171 Hawkesbury Road — a short walk from Westmead train station and Westmead Hospital. On-site parking available.
Consultations in English and Persian
Dr Moazzeni consults in both English and Persian (Farsi), supporting clear communication for patients across Western Sydney.
How to prepare
A few simple steps will help your stress echo run smoothly. If you have any questions or specific concerns about preparation, please call us before your appointment on (02) 8401 9598.
Comfortable exercise wear
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive walking or running shoes. You will be exercising on a treadmill.
Light meal only
Avoid heavy meals for 3–4 hours before your test. A light snack and water are fine.
Avoid for 24 hours
Skip coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate, and nicotine for 24 hours before your appointment, as these can affect test accuracy.
Bring your medication list
Continue your usual medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. Bring a full list — including doses — to your appointment.
What to expect during your stress echo
The full appointment takes around 45–60 minutes. Active exercise time is typically 6–12 minutes; the remaining time covers preparation, image acquisition, and recovery.
Resting images
You'll lie on the examination bed while baseline ultrasound images of your heart are recorded. ECG electrodes are placed on your chest, and a blood pressure cuff is fitted.
Exercise on the treadmill
You'll walk on the treadmill, with the speed and incline increasing every few minutes. Heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored continuously throughout.
Post-exercise imaging
As soon as you stop exercising, you return to the bed for repeat ultrasound images while your heart is still working hard. Speed matters — these post-exercise images are the most diagnostically valuable part of the test.
Recovery and results
Your heart rate is monitored as it returns to normal. The cardiologist then discusses the findings with you and advises on next steps. A written report is sent to your referring doctor.
Three ways to book your stress echocardiogram
You can book directly with our reception team, complete an online registration form, or have your GP send a referral. Urgent appointments are accommodated where clinically appropriate.
By phone
(02) 8401 9598Speak directly with our reception team. Best for urgent appointments and questions about preparation.
Mon–Fri, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Online registration
Book onlineChoose a time that suits you and complete your patient details before arrival.
Available 24 hours
GP referral
Refer a patientSecure online referral form for GPs and other referring clinicians. Urgent referrals prioritised.
For referrers only
Getting to Heartcare Sydney
Heartcare Sydney is located on Level 3 (Office 33), 163–171 Hawkesbury Road, Westmead — directly opposite Westmead Hospital and a short walk from Westmead train station.
By train
By car
About Dr Reza Moazzeni
Dr Reza Moazzeni (MBBS, FRACP) is a consultant cardiologist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. He completed his cardiology and advanced heart failure training at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney in 2012, with a special interest in cardiac imaging — including stress echocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography, and CT coronary angiography — alongside heart failure and arrhythmia management.
Dr Moazzeni consults at Heartcare Sydney's primary clinic in Westmead, with admitting rights at Westmead Private Hospital and Sydney Adventist (SAN) Hospital. He provides consultations in both English and Persian (Farsi).
Stress echo at Westmead — frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a stress echocardiogram?
Yes — a GP or specialist referral is required before your stress echo. This ensures the test is clinically appropriate and supports your Medicare rebate. If you don't yet have a referral, your GP can fax one to us, or use our online referral form.
How long does the appointment take?
Plan for around 45–60 minutes from arrival to leaving the clinic. The active exercise component is typically 6–12 minutes; the remaining time covers preparation, baseline imaging, post-exercise imaging, recovery, and discussion of results with the cardiologist.
Will I get my results on the same day?
Yes. Dr Moazzeni reviews the images during and immediately after your test, and discusses the findings with you before you leave. A formal written report is then sent to your referring doctor — usually within 24 hours.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most appointments can be arranged within a week. For urgent referrals — symptomatic patients, recent cardiac events, or acute concerns — please call us directly on (02) 8401 9598 so we can discuss timing.
Is there parking near the clinic?
Yes — paid parking is available on-site in the building at 163–171 Hawkesbury Road, with additional street parking on surrounding streets. We're also a 5-minute walk from Westmead train station for patients using public transport.
Can I drive home after a stress echocardiogram?
Yes, in the great majority of cases. A standard exercise stress echo does not involve sedation or contrast, so you can usually drive yourself home. If you have any unusual symptoms during or after the test, the cardiologist will advise on whether a rest period or alternative transport is appropriate.
What if I can't run on a treadmill?
If you have mobility, joint, or breathing limitations that prevent treadmill exercise, alternative tests can be considered. Please mention any exercise limitations when booking, so the appropriate test can be planned.
Ready to book your stress echocardiogram?
Cardiologist-led stress echo with same-day results discussion. Urgent appointments accommodated. Located opposite Westmead Hospital, serving patients across Western Sydney.
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