What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your First Visit to Rowan Cardiology in Reno
Seeing a heart specialist for the first time can feel like a big step. We want you to walk in knowing exactly what will happen, and walk out understanding your heart health and your plan.
Most new-patient visits last about 30 minutes. You'll spend real time with Dr. Rowan, MD, FACC or McKenna O'Connor, PA-C. Both are accepting new patients.
Before Your Visit
Scheduling. Call us at (775) 636-7100 or use the Request a Call form on our website. If your doctor is referring you, they can fax your referral and records to (775) 636-6724. Some insurance plans require a referral, so check with your plan before your visit.
New-patient forms. Download our forms from the Forms page and fill them out at home. Or complete the forms digitally in the office.
What to bring:
Photo ID and insurance card(s)
A list of every medication and supplement you take, with doses (or bring the bottles)
Any recent test results: EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, bloodwork or hospital records
Home blood pressure or heart-rate readings, or data from a smartwatch, if you track them
A list of your symptoms: what they feel like, when they happen and how long they last
Your questions. Write them down so nothing gets forgotten.
Wear comfortable clothing. A two-piece outfit makes an EKG easier, since we place small stickers on your chest. Keep taking your regular medications unless a doctor tells you otherwise.
The Day of Your Visit
Finding us. We're at 689 Sierra Rose Dr, Suite B, Reno, NV 89511, near Kietzke Lane by the Lowe's. Turn west onto Sierra Rose Drive, then turn right into the third building-complex entrance. Our office is in the last building on the right, and parking is free.
Please arrive 15 minutes early so we can check you in and confirm your information.
What happens during your appointment:
Check-in. Our front desk confirms your insurance and collects your forms.
Vital signs. A medical assistant checks your blood pressure, heart rate, weight and oxygen level.
EKG. Most new patients get an electrocardiogram. It takes about 5 minutes and doesn't hurt. Small stickers on your chest record your heart's electrical activity.
Conversation with your provider. This is the heart of the visit. We'll review your symptoms, medical history, family history, medications and lifestyle, including diet, exercise, sleep and stress.
Physical exam. Your provider listens to your heart and lungs and checks your pulses and for swelling.
Your plan. Before you leave, our providers will explain what we found in plain language and what comes next. Our goal is for you to understand your heart, not just get a diagnosis.
Family members are welcome to join you. A second set of ears is often helpful.
After Your Visit
Testing, if you need it. Depending on your visit, we may recommend one or more tests:
An echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of your heart
A stress test
A Holter or wearable heart monitor
A coronary calcium score
Bloodwork
We'll explain why each test matters and help you schedule it.
Follow-up. Most patients return in a few weeks to go over test results and fine-tune their plan.
Stay connected. Use our Patient Portal to see results, message our team and request prescription refills.
We keep your doctor in the loop. If another doctor referred you, we send them a summary of your visit so your care stays coordinated.
Insurance and Payment
We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare, and we offer cash-pay options. Please bring your insurance card to every visit. If you're unsure about your coverage, call us before your visit and we'll help you check.
Common Questions
Do I need a referral? Not always. Some insurance plans, especially HMOs, require one. Call your plan or call us and we'll help you find out.
How long does the first visit take? Plan on about 60 minutes. Most of that is time with your provider.
Should I stop my medications before the visit? No. Keep taking them as prescribed unless a doctor has told you otherwise.
Will I have tests the same day? You'll usually get an EKG during your visit. Other tests, like a stress test or echocardiogram, are scheduled separately.
What if I have chest pain before my appointment? Don't wait. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Ready to Schedule?
Call (775) 636-7100 or use the Request a Call form, and our team will get back to you. We look forward to meeting you.
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