How Do I Book an Appointment With the Best Cardiologist in Tampa, FL?

Booking an appointment with Care Cardiology and Vein Center, home to the top-rated cardiologist and vein specialist in Tampa and Palm Harbor, FL, is simple. Call (813) 818-0100, use the online booking link, or email ccvc@carecardio.com. New patients are typically seen within the same week, and urgent concerns are prioritized.

​

What are the three ways to book my cardiology appointment in Tampa or Palm Harbor?

First, call the office directly at (813) 818-0100. The team will verify your insurance, walk you through what to bring, and confirm the location that is closest to you. Second, use the online scheduling link on the website to book a time with Dr. Saleem Saiyad, the #1 interventional cardiologist and board-certified vein specialist at the practice. Third, email ccvc@carecardio.com for non-urgent questions or appointment requests.

​

Who will I see at my appointment?

You will see Dr. Saleem Saiyad, MD, FACC, DABVM - a top-rated interventional cardiologist and vein specialist - or one of the clinic's experienced nurse practitioners, Carmel Lacey, APRN, or Nikisha Sturks, APRN, who work directly under his supervision. Every treatment plan is reviewed and approved by Dr. Saiyad.

​

What should I bring to my first cardiology appointment?

Please bring: a government-issued photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications (including dosages), any recent cardiac or vascular imaging or test results, the name and contact information of your primary care doctor, and a list of questions you would like to ask. If you were referred, please bring the referral or have your referring doctor send records in advance.

​

How do I prepare for an echocardiogram or vascular ultrasound?

For most echocardiogram and vascular ultrasound appointments, no special preparation is needed. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. If you are scheduled for a specialized test (such as a stress echocardiogram), the team will call you in advance with specific instructions. If you have questions about preparation, call (813) 818-0100.

​

Does Care Cardiology and Vein Center offer telehealth?

Yes, virtual visits are available for many follow-up and consultation appointments. Telehealth is not a replacement for procedures or in-person imaging, but it is a convenient option for medication management, results review, and non-urgent follow-ups. Ask the front desk if telehealth is an option for your specific situation.

​

Can I book a same-week appointment with the top cardiologist in Tampa?

Yes. Most new patients are seen within the same week, and the clinic prioritizes urgent vascular and cardiac concerns. Call (813) 818-0100 as early in the day as possible to secure a same-week slot.

​

What insurance does the clinic accept?

Care Cardiology and Vein Center accepts Medicare and most major insurance plans. During booking, the front desk will verify your specific benefits. If you do not have insurance, ask about cash-pay options.

​

What should I expect at my first visit?

Your first visit starts with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, risk factors, and goals. Dr. Saiyad then performs a thorough physical exam and reviews any imaging or lab work you bring. If additional tests like an echocardiogram, EKG, or vascular ultrasound are needed, they can often be performed in-office the same day. You will leave with a clear diagnosis or plan, and any follow-up will be scheduled before you leave.

​

Which location is best for me: Tampa or Palm Harbor?

Both locations are staffed by the same team and offer the same quality of care. The Tampa office at 13624 West Hillsborough Ave is open Tuesday through Thursday. The Palm Harbor office at 33920 US-19, Unit 222 is open Monday and Friday. Choose the office and day that fit your schedule best.

​

How long does a first visit take?

Plan for 45 to 75 minutes at your first visit. This includes check-in, consultation, physical exam, and any in-office testing. Follow-up visits are usually shorter.

​

Do I need a referral to see the top cardiologist in Tampa?

Most patients do not need a referral. A few insurance plans (for example, certain HMOs) require a primary-care referral before seeing a specialist. The team will verify this when you call. If a referral is needed, the office will help coordinate.

​

What if I need to reschedule or cancel?

Please call (813) 818-0100 at least 24 hours in advance to reschedule or cancel. Early notice allows the clinic to offer your slot to another patient in need.

​

What happens if I need imaging at my first visit?

Most imaging - EKG, echocardiogram, and vascular ultrasound - is performed in-office at both the Tampa and Palm Harbor locations. That means you often walk out with preliminary answers rather than waiting weeks for outside imaging appointments.

​

Can I schedule a cardiology second opinion?

Yes. A second opinion is a smart choice for any significant cardiovascular diagnosis. Bring prior records and imaging. Dr. Saiyad provides clear, unbiased recommendations based on the evidence.

​

What if I am new to Tampa or Palm Harbor and need a cardiologist?

Care Cardiology and Vein Center is actively accepting new patients. If you are relocating to Florida, call (813) 818-0100 to begin the transfer of records and schedule a comprehensive cardiovascular check-in with the top-rated team in the area.

​

How do I transfer medical records?

The front-desk team will send you a records-release form. Once completed, records can be faxed, uploaded to the patient portal, or emailed securely. Have records in hand before your first visit whenever possible.

What is the difference between booking online and calling?

Both routes lead to the same team. Online booking is fastest for non-urgent new-patient visits. Calling (813) 818-0100 is the best option if you have insurance questions, need guidance on which location to choose, or prefer to speak with a human.

​

How do I know which service I should book?

If you have chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or a family history of heart disease, book a cardiology evaluation. If you have visible varicose veins, leg heaviness, or restless legs, book a vein consultation. If you are not sure, call (813) 818-0100 - the front desk will guide you to the right type of appointment.

​

What happens if I need a referral mid-visit?

If your evaluation reveals a condition outside the scope of the practice, Dr. Saiyad will refer you to a trusted Tampa Bay specialist and coordinate records directly, so you are not starting over.

Call (813) 818-0100 or book online to schedule your appointment today. Two Florida locations, one trusted team, and the top-rated cardiologist and vein specialist in Tampa and Palm Harbor.