Cardiology
What Is an Echocardiogram?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
An echocardiogram (echo) is an ultrasound of the heart that visualizes the heart's structure and function in real time — showing the heart muscle contracting and relaxing, valve function, chamber sizes, and blood flow. It is the most commonly ordered cardiac imaging test, providing information about ejection fraction, valve disease, pericardial effusion, and wall motion abnormalities.
Key considerations
An echocardiogram (echo) is an ultrasound of the heart that visualizes the heart's structure and function in real time — showing the heart muscle contracting and relaxing, valve function, chamber sizes, and blood flow. It is the most commonly ordered cardiac imaging test, providing information about ejection fraction, valve disease, pericardial effusion, and wall motion abnormalities.
When to seek physician guidance
A board-certified cardiologist can perform a thorough cardiovascular risk assessment — including advanced lipid testing, blood pressure evaluation, EKG, and imaging when appropriate — and design a personalized prevention or treatment plan based on your individual risk factors, family history, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this most relevant for?
Adults with cardiovascular symptoms, multiple risk factors (hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking history), a family history of early heart disease, or anyone seeking comprehensive preventive cardiovascular care. A cardiologist evaluation determines individual risk and appropriate next steps.
Is testing covered by insurance?
Most standard cardiovascular evaluations, EKG, echocardiograms, and indicated stress testing are covered by insurance when medically necessary. Some advanced screening (coronary artery calcium scoring, advanced lipid testing) may be out-of-pocket. Verify benefits with your insurer and the practice in advance.
What is the first step?
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified cardiologist. Expect a detailed history, physical examination, blood pressure measurement, EKG, and a discussion of which blood tests and imaging studies are appropriate based on your specific risk profile.
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