Northeast Cardiology Associates is pleased to offer an Arrhythmia Monitoring Program to Primary Care Physicians throughout Central and Northern Maine. Through the program, area physicians can now fit patients with portable Holter and Event Monitors at their local offices. These arrhythmia monitors, along with training on their hook-up and usage, is provided free of charge to Maine physicians.

The two types of arrhythmia monitors NECA provides each have a special purpose. Holter Monitors record the cardiac activity of patients as they go about their daily routines for a 24-48 hour period. They are used to access heart arrhythmias, symptoms of chest pain, palpitations, fainting spells and the effectiveness of cardiac medications.

Event Monitors are primarily used for patients with intermittent symptoms. Event Monitors are worn continuously for 30 days or longer so that patients may record their symptoms as they occur and can immediately send the data to NECA via the telephone. With Event Monitors, trained technicians are on 24-hour standby to read and interpret the data and advise the patient in case of an emergency.

In both cases, once the patient's cardiac data is collected, board-certified NECA cardiologist provides an interpretation of the collected data, and advises the primary care physician regarding any recommended follow-up tests or treatment.

"When dealing with a potentially life-threatening event, a physician's ability to respond immediately signifies the highest level of patient care," says Dr. Robert Hoffmann, NECA's President. "Having these simple devices in every local office means patients, most of whom are elderly, can be outfitted in the comfort of their local offices instead of scheduling a second appointment at another location."

Dr. Robert Allen points out that the program has several advantages for local physicians as well. "Since the monitors we provide are simply a loan, local physicians will not have the responsibility of owning, renting or leasing equipment," Allen says. "They also have the expert, local support from NECA cardiologists, who can follow-up with their patients if needed. And, reimbursement is available for their staff's time required to connect the monitors. It's really a win-win for both physician and patient."

For more information, contact Northeast Cardiology at 947-7388.