Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You can schedule directly online or by phone. If your physician prefers to refer you, they can fax records to (949) 779-3303 or call (585) 565-2341.

Question 2

What records should I send before my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Prior cardiac imaging (echo, MRI, cath reports), operative notes, recent labs, and a current medication list. Fax to our office before your visit or bring them to your appointment.

Question 3

I haven't seen a specialist in years — can I still become a patient?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many patients re-enter care after a gap. We review all available records and build a current care plan regardless of how long it has been since your last visit.

Question 4

How do I access my intake forms?

Accepted Answer

You will receive intake forms by email after scheduling. Complete them before your appointment to streamline your visit.

Question 5

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Photo ID, insurance card (if applicable), current medication list, and any cardiac records not already uploaded. For telehealth visits, ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet space.

Question 6

How does telemedicine work?

Accepted Answer

Most visits begin via secure video. You connect from home at your scheduled time. If in-person evaluation or testing is needed, it will be arranged after the initial consultation.

Question 7

What is ACHD and why does it require a specialist?

Accepted Answer

ACHD stands for Adult Congenital Heart Disease. Structural heart defects present from birth require lifelong monitoring by a specialist trained in both the anatomy and the long-term complications unique to these conditions.

Question 8

I'm pregnant and have a heart defect — should I see you or my OB?

Accepted Answer

Both. We work alongside your OB or maternal-fetal medicine team to manage cardiac risk during pregnancy. Pre-conception counseling is recommended when possible.

Question 9

How do I refer a patient?

Accepted Answer

Fax records to (949) 779-3303, call (585) 565-2341, or use the provider portal. No special referral form is required — send available cardiac records and a brief clinical summary.

Question 10

What is your expected turnaround for new consults?

Accepted Answer

Most new patients are seen within 14 days. A detailed consultation report and care plan are returned to the referring provider within 5–7 business days after the visit.

Question 11

Are you taking new adult cardiology patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Congenital Heart Compass is actively accepting new patients across New York State. Telemedicine appointments are available statewide. Schedule at congenitalheartcompass.com/scheduling.

Question 12

How do I schedule a virtual cardiology visit?

Accepted Answer

Visit congenitalheartcompass.com/scheduling to book a telemedicine appointment. No referral required. Dr. Charla sees patients across all of New York State via telemedicine.

Question 13

Can a specialist help with my child's congenital heart condition?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dr. Charla is dual board-certified in Pediatric Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Disease, specializing in the transition from pediatric to adult CHD care.

Question 14

How does a telemedicine cardiology appointment work?

Accepted Answer

You book online, receive a secure video link, and meet with Dr. Charla remotely. Records can be sent ahead. Most consultations require no in-person visit for initial evaluation.

Question 15

What does a board-certified ACHD cardiologist do?

Accepted Answer

An ACHD cardiologist provides lifelong surveillance for adults born with heart defects — managing arrhythmia, heart failure, pregnancy planning, and complex anatomy that general cardiologists are not trained to handle.

Question 16

Do I still need a cardiologist after childhood heart surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Congenital heart disease is not cured by surgery — it is managed. Most adults with repaired CHD require lifelong specialist follow-up to prevent deterioration.

Question 17

Is there an ACHD specialist in Upstate New York?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dr. Charla at Congenital Heart Compass in Rochester NY is the only independent ACHD specialist in Upstate and Western New York. Telemedicine is available statewide.

Resources

Patient Education

Congenital Heart Disease

Pregnancy

Heart Failure

Arrhythmias

Transition

Mental Health