Dr. Richard Thompson, MD

About Dr. Richard Thompson, MD

Dr. Richard Thompson, MD is a Cardiology specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular care at his clinic in Melbourne, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, adhering to the standards set forth by the Florida Board of Medicine and Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for his patients of all ages. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (321) 725-4500 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Richard Thompson, MD is a cardiologist in Melbourne, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1991, and completed his internship at St Vincent Hospital and Health Services, and St Vincent Hospital. He further specialized through fellowship training at Beaumont Hospital - Royal Oak Campus, and William Beaumont Hospital, deepening his expertise in a specific area of patient health. Dr. Thompson is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine and affiliated with Viera Hospital and Holmes Regional Medical Center. His experience, combined with his compassionate care, brings a wealth of clinical knowledge to his patients and their families. Dr. Thompson is a member of Midwest Physicians, an integrated multi-specialty group committed to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare in a caring, affordable, timely, and accessible manner. He strives to collaborate with patients, their colleagues, and other healthcare professionals to meet each patient's individual needs. Dr. Richard Thompson provides consultations primarily in English.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Richard Thompson addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Atrial Flutter: With atrial flutter, the heart's atria beat very quickly, causing a fluttering sensation and potentially leading to irregular heartbeats.
• Rheumatic Aortic Valve Disorders: Damage to the heart's aortic valve from rheumatic fever can lead to narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation).
• Pericardial Disease: Pericardial disease refers to conditions affecting the sac-like membrane surrounding your heart.
• Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): Ventricular tachycardia is a rapid heartbeat originating in the lower chambers of the heart.
• Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers and valves.
• Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD: Peripheral vascular disease (PAD) is a condition where blood vessels outside of the heart and brain become narrowed, reducing blood flow to the limbs.
• Heart Attack (STEMI): A heart attack (STEMI) occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart is suddenly cut off by a blocked artery, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: With paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, you experience episodes of rapid, chaotic heartbeats that start and stop unexpectedly, unlike persistent atrial fibrillation.
• Sinus Bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is a slow heart rhythm originating from the heart's natural pacemaker.
• Hypertensive Heart with Failure: You have heart failure, a condition worsened by long-term high blood pressure.
• Congenital Heart Defects: Congenital heart defects involve birth defects affecting the heart's normal development.
• Aneurysm and Dissection of Heart: Heart aneurysm and dissection are life-threatening conditions where a portion of the heart muscle balloons out or tears apart.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Richard Thompson 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. Richard Thompson offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Tilt Table Testing: During a tilt table test, you'll lie on a table that adjusts to different angles to help doctors determine if changes in your blood pressure or heart rhythm are causing your symptoms.
• Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid buildup around your lungs.
• Structural Heart Disease Evaluations and Treatment: If you have a heart condition related to the physical structure of your heart, this covers its diagnosis and treatment.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: A cardiac ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your heart and its structures.
• Cardioverter-Defibrillator or Pacemaker Insertion: This service provides implantation of a device to help regulate your heart rhythm.
• Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): During a cardiac catheterization, doctors can visualize your heart's blood vessels to diagnose conditions like coronary artery disease.
• 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.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: HeartAware's online risk assessment provides a personalized overview of your cardiovascular health.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a quick and non-invasive way to assess the health of your heart muscle and electrical conduction system.
• Vascular Duplex Ultrasonography and Plethysmography: This combined test uses ultrasound and pressure readings to assess blood circulation in your blood vessels, helping to detect blockages or other problems.
• Nuclear Stress Testing: Nuclear stress testing uses a small amount of radioactive material and an exercise test or medication to show how well your heart is working during stress.
• Tilt_Testing: This test involves lying on a specialized table that changes angle to assess how your heart and circulation react to changes in posture, helping diagnose conditions like vasovagal syncope.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Richard Thompson. 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. Richard Thompson:

What is a Cardiologist?

A cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the heart and blood vessels. They diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure. Our cardiologists provide expert care for all your heart health needs.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Richard Thompson?

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

Does Dr. Richard Thompson accept my insurance?

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

What does a heart failure diagnosis mean?

A heart failure diagnosis means your heart isn't pumping blood as efficiently as it should. This is treatable; we'll work with you to manage symptoms through lifestyle changes and medications, improving your heart function and quality of life.

What is a cardiac stress test?

A cardiac stress test evaluates how your heart performs during physical activity. It involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while connected to an EKG machine. This helps diagnose coronary artery disease and assess your heart's function under exertion.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, or "echo," is a non-invasive ultrasound of your heart. Sound waves create moving pictures, allowing your cardiologist to evaluate your heart's size, shape, pumping ability, and valve health.

I have a family history of heart disease. How can I be proactive?

We commend your proactive approach. A preventive cardiology consultation with Dr. Thompson will involve a thorough risk assessment, potentially including advanced lipid testing, and the creation of a personalized plan for diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes to minimize your future risk.

How does Dr. Richard Thompson treat heart valve disease?

Dr. Thompson approaches heart valve disease with a personalized plan. This may involve regular monitoring for mild cases, medication management for moderate cases, or, for severe cases, coordination with a cardiac surgeon or interventional cardiologist for procedures like valve repair or replacement (TAVR).