Dr. Matthew McKillop, MD

About Dr. Matthew McKillop, MD

Dr. Matthew McKillop, MD is a Cardiology specialist practicing at our Jacksonville, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Cardiovascular care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and adheres to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring a strong foundation of ethical and regulatory compliance in his practice. I provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for my patients. I am committed to serving all ages.

Dr. Matthew McKillop, MD is a cardiologist in Jacksonville, FL. He has extensive experience in Cardiac Implantable Device Procedures and Cardiac Electrical System Procedures, and is affiliated with esteemed medical facilities such as Baptist Medical Center Nassau and Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville. He is Board Certified in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, a testament to his expertise and commitment to the field. My practice emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making. I strive to create a supportive and reassuring environment for patients, empowering them to actively participate in their own health journey. New patients are welcome and can schedule an appointment by calling (904) 398-0125. Dr. McKillop provides consultations primarily in English.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Matthew McKillop addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Hypertensive Heart and Chronic Kidney Disease: Hypertensive heart disease means your high blood pressure is damaging your heart.
• Hypertensive Heart Disease: Damage to the heart caused by sustained high blood pressure is known as hypertensive heart disease.
• Cardiomyopathy: A range of conditions causing the heart muscle to be weakened or abnormally thickened are classified under the term cardiomyopathy.
• Nonrheumatic Tricuspid Disease: Nonrheumatic tricuspid disease refers to problems with the tricuspid valve in your heart that aren't caused by rheumatic fever.
• Heart Valve Disorders: Problems with the heart's valves, such as stenosis or regurgitation, can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
• Arteriovenous Fistula: Arteriovenous fistula is a medical term for an unusual connection between an artery and a vein.
• Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: With paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, you experience episodes of rapid, chaotic heartbeats that start and stop unexpectedly, unlike persistent atrial fibrillation.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain can be a symptom of many things, including heart problems like angina or a heart attack.
• Atrial Fibrillation: With atrial fibrillation, the heart's electrical signals become disorganized, leading to an abnormally fast and irregular heartbeat.
• Chronic Congestive Heart Failure: Chronic congestive heart failure is a long-term condition where your heart struggles to pump enough blood to meet your body's needs.
• Angina: Angina feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or pain in your chest, often brought on by exertion.
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Coronary artery disease develops when fatty deposits restrict blood flow to your heart, causing symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Matthew McKillop addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Cardiology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Cardiovascular Services Provided

Dr. Matthew McKillop offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Cardiovascular Diagnostic Test: A cardiovascular diagnostic test helps doctors assess the health of your heart and blood vessels.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: Our cardiovascular service evaluates chest pain to determine its cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Insertion of Left Ventricular Lead for Pacemaker or Cardioverter and Defibrillator: A wire (lead) was placed inside the main pumping chamber of my heart to help a pacemaker or defibrillator work properly.
• Removal or Revision of Pacemaker or Cardioverter and-or Defibrillator: A procedure was done to take out and/or replace the heart's pacemaker or defibrillator.
• Pharmacologic Nuclear Stress Test: This test uses medicine to increase your heart rate and a special dye to create images of your heart's blood flow, helping doctors assess its health.
• Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography: This imaging and blood flow assessment technique, combining ultrasound and pressure measurements, helps find problems in your arteries and veins that may affect circulation.
• Cardiac Catheterization with Robotic Assist: This procedure uses a robot to help guide a catheter into the heart, allowing doctors to diagnose and treat heart conditions with greater precision.
• Cardiac Imaging: These imaging techniques help doctors assess the size, shape, and function of your heart and blood vessels.
• Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): This procedure involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel to check for narrowed or blocked arteries in your heart.
• Electrophysiological Study: Doctors use this test to evaluate the need for and plan the best treatment for arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
• Treadmill Stress Test: During a treadmill stress test, your heart's activity is tracked as you exercise to detect any abnormalities like blockages in your coronary arteries.
• Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from around your lungs.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Matthew McKillop. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Cardiology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Cardiology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Matthew McKillop:

What is a Cardiologist?

A cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the heart and blood vessels. They diagnose, treat, and prevent heart conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Matthew McKillop?

Your first visit with Dr. McKillop will include a detailed review of your symptoms, risk factors, and family history. A physical exam and often an electrocardiogram (EKG) will be performed. Further testing, such as an echocardiogram or stress test, may be discussed depending on your individual needs.

Does Dr. Matthew McKillop accept my insurance?

Dr. McKillop's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm coverage for your specific insurance plan, please call our office directly with your insurance information. This will ensure accurate details for both consultations and potential procedures.

What is the difference between a pacemaker and a defibrillator (ICD)?

A pacemaker helps regulate slow heartbeats by sending electrical signals to the heart. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) monitors for dangerously fast heartbeats and can deliver a shock to restore a normal rhythm.

Does a cardiologist treat blockages in leg arteries?

Dr. McKillop and our team often treat Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), which involves blockages in leg arteries. We manage risk factors and perform procedures like angiography and stenting to improve blood flow and relieve symptoms like leg pain.

I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). What are the treatment options?

Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) focuses on controlling your heart rate, restoring a regular rhythm, and preventing blood clots. Options include medications, cardioversion procedures, and advanced techniques like catheter ablation. The best approach is tailored to your individual situation.

What is the treatment for high cholesterol?

Treatment for high cholesterol often starts with dietary changes and increased physical activity. If lifestyle modifications aren't sufficient, Dr. McKillop may prescribe medications, such as statins, to effectively lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

I've had fainting spells. How do you determine the cause?

Evaluating fainting involves a thorough investigation to rule out serious cardiac causes. We use various tests, including EKGs, echocardiograms, tilt table tests, and heart rhythm monitors, to pinpoint the underlying reason and ensure your safety.