Introduction

Cardiology is the healthcare specialty that deals with cardiovascular diseases and disorders. A cardiologist is a physician who specializes in internal medicine and cardiology. A cardiologist treats patients with cardiovascular system diseases and disorders.
      Vascular surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in vascular diseases. They diagnose and treat artery and vein conditions in every part of the body except for the brain and the heart. Cardiothoracic surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in surgical procedures involving the lungs, heart, esophagus, and other organs in the chest. They can also be called cardiac surgeons, cardiovascular surgeons, and general thoracic surgeons.
      Hematology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to blood and blood-forming organs. A hematologist is a physician who specializes in internal medicine and hematology. A hematologist treats patients with blood, bone marrow, vascular system, lymph gland, and spleen disorders.
      Cardiology-related tests are common in the ambulatory care setting. Patients with cardiovascular diseases are seen in primary care, urgent care, and specialty departments. Patients seen for other conditions may also have cardiovascular diseases. Medical assistants may need to coach patients on cardiovascular procedures. Having a strong understanding of the cardiovascular system and common diseases is important for medical assistants.