Cardiologists

The offices and examining rooms of most cardiologists and related physicians are well equipped, attractive, well lighted, and well ventilated. There is usually at least one nurse-receptionist on the physician's staff, and there may be several nurses, a laboratory technician, one or more secretaries, a bookkeeper, or receptionist.

Cardiologists usually see patients by appointments that are scheduled according to individual requirements. They may reserve all mornings for hospital visits and surgery. They may see patients in the office only on certain days of the week. Most work full-time hours, sometimes more than 40 hours per week.

More and more physicians now work in group practices, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), or hospitals where they share patients with other doctors. Working with other doctors gives each doctor more time off and allows for backup coverage, but reduces the independence that solo practitioners have.