The best adult congenital heart disease doctors are board-certified in ACHD — a subspecialty certification offered through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) that requires advanced fellowship training beyond general cardiology. Fewer than 500 physicians in the United States currently hold this certification, which means access to a true ACHD expert often requires telemedicine or travel.
How to Identify a Qualified ACHD Cardiologist
When evaluating ACHD doctors, look for:
- Board certification in adult congenital heart disease (ABIM-certified).
- Fellowship training at an accredited ACHD program.
- Experience with your specific type of defect — simple, moderate, or complex.
- Expertise in related conditions: heart failure in CHD, pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmia, and pregnancy and heart disease.
- Collaborative relationships with cardiac surgery, electrophysiology, and obstetrics teams.
Have questions about your care?
Speak directly with our team — no referral needed for most consultations.
Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC is led by a regional ACHD expert who is board-certified in adult congenital heart disease and has advanced training in heart failure in CHD, pulmonary hypertension in CHD, and pregnancy and heart disease. We serve patients across Upstate and Western New York by telemedicine, with in-person visits in Rochester when needed.
Reviewed by Dr. Pradeepkumar Charla, MD, MBA, FAAP, FACC
Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist — Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC
Last reviewed:
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified cardiologist for decisions about your congenital heart disease care.