Information
NHS Lothian does not offer a direct access echo service. If you feel an echocardiogram alone is warranted without the need for clinical assessment, please refer to Cardiology requesting “echo only”. This type of referral would be suitable for a patient with a previously undiagnosed and asymptomatic murmur. Patients with cardiac murmurs and cardiac symptoms should be referred for clinical assessment. Patients already known to a Cardiologist – please contact the Cardiologist involved in the patient’s care previously for advice.
C.W & C.S 27-01-23
Who to refer:
Asymptomatic murmur requiring investigation. – “Echo only” referral stated on SCIgateway.
Most patients with atrial fibrillation, especially if they are young, suitable for rhythm control, or there is a high risk or suspicion of underlying structural or functional heart disease (such as heart murmur or heart failure)
Who not to refer:
Any cardiac symptoms – refer for cardiac assessment via Cardiology
Breathless patients thought to have heart failure – please see Heart Failure section.
Patients with atrial fibrillation where a rate control strategy is being adopted and there are no additional indications for an echo (see above “Who to refer?”)
