Top 25 Pediatric Cardiologist Across the US
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What is a Pediatric Cardiologist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A pediatric cardiologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. These medical experts are trained in managing congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth), acquired heart diseases, heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), and heart muscle diseases in young patients. Pediatric cardiologists use specialized diagnostic tools including echocardiography, electrocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization designed for children's unique needs. They work closely with pediatric cardiac surgeons, neonatologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for children with heart conditions.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a pediatric cardiologist requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 3 years of pediatric residency training in general pediatrics
- 3 years of pediatric cardiology fellowship with specialized training in congenital and acquired heart disease
- Total of 14+ years of education and training beyond high school
- Optional additional fellowship training in interventional pediatric cardiology, pediatric electrophysiology, or adult congenital heart disease
Board Certification: American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) with subspecialty certification in Pediatric Cardiology. Certification requires passing comprehensive written examinations after completing an accredited fellowship. Additional subspecialty certifications available in Pediatric Transplant Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Disease.
When Should You See a Pediatric Cardiologist?
You should consider seeing a pediatric cardiologist if:
- Your child has a heart murmur detected during a physical exam
- Prenatal ultrasound suggests a possible heart defect in your unborn baby
- Your child experiences chest pain, fainting, or unexplained shortness of breath
- Your child has an irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Your child has been diagnosed with Kawasaki disease
- Your infant has difficulty feeding, poor weight gain, or bluish skin coloring
- There is a family history of congenital heart disease or sudden cardiac death
- Your child needs cardiac evaluation before participating in competitive sports
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Pediatric Cardiologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that pediatric cardiologists help patients manage.
Congenital Heart Defects
Structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth, ranging from simple defects like small holes between heart chambers to complex conditions requiring multiple surgeries.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists diagnose congenital heart defects using echocardiography and other imaging, determine the severity and timing for intervention, coordinate with cardiac surgeons for repairs, and provide lifelong monitoring to optimize outcomes.
Heart Murmurs in Children
Abnormal heart sounds caused by turbulent blood flow. Most murmurs in children are innocent (harmless), but some indicate underlying heart conditions requiring treatment.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists perform comprehensive evaluations including echocardiograms to distinguish innocent murmurs from those caused by structural heart defects, providing reassurance to families when appropriate or initiating treatment when needed.
Pediatric Arrhythmias
Abnormal heart rhythms in children, including supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, long QT syndrome, and other rhythm disorders that may cause symptoms or health risks.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists use electrocardiograms, Holter monitors, and event recorders to diagnose rhythm disorders. Treatment options include medications, catheter ablation procedures to eliminate abnormal electrical pathways, and implantable devices when indicated.
Kawasaki Disease
An acute inflammatory condition affecting blood vessels, primarily in children under 5. Without treatment, it can damage coronary arteries and lead to serious heart complications.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists perform echocardiograms to monitor for coronary artery aneurysms, guide treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin, and provide long-term cardiac surveillance for children who develop coronary involvement.
Fetal Heart Conditions
Heart abnormalities detected before birth through fetal echocardiography, allowing for prenatal counseling, delivery planning, and immediate postnatal intervention when needed.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists trained in fetal echocardiography perform detailed prenatal cardiac imaging, provide counseling to expectant parents, coordinate with maternal-fetal medicine and neonatology teams, and plan delivery at appropriate facilities.
Pediatric Heart Failure
A condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently to meet the body's needs. In children, this may result from congenital defects, cardiomyopathy, or acquired conditions like myocarditis.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists manage heart failure with medications, nutritional support, and close monitoring. They coordinate care for severe cases requiring mechanical support devices or heart transplantation evaluation.
Cardiomyopathy in Children
Diseases of the heart muscle that affect its ability to pump effectively. Types include dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy, which may be genetic or acquired.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists diagnose cardiomyopathy through echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and genetic testing. They manage the condition with medications, activity recommendations, and evaluate patients for advanced therapies including transplantation when necessary.
Sports Cardiology and Pre-Participation Screening
Cardiac evaluation of young athletes to identify conditions that may put them at risk during competitive sports, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other causes of sudden cardiac death.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatric cardiologists perform comprehensive cardiac evaluations for athletes, including EKG, echocardiogram, and exercise stress testing. They provide clearance for safe participation or implement restrictions and treatments to prevent sudden cardiac events.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Pediatric Cardiologists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified pediatric cardiologist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a pediatric cardiologist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive review of your child's medical history, including birth history and developmental milestones
- Discussion of any cardiac symptoms and when they occur
- Review of family history of heart disease, sudden death, or genetic conditions
- Physical examination including listening to heart sounds and checking pulses
- Measurement of vital signs including blood pressure in arms and legs
- Initial diagnostic testing such as electrocardiogram (EKG) and often echocardiogram
- Discussion of findings and development of a care plan
- First visits typically last 60-90 minutes including testing
Diagnosis & Testing
- Echocardiogram (cardiac ultrasound): Non-invasive imaging to visualize heart structure and function
- Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): Recording of heart's electrical activity to detect rhythm abnormalities
- Holter monitor: 24-48 hour continuous heart rhythm monitoring
- Event recorder: Extended monitoring device worn for weeks to capture intermittent symptoms
- Exercise stress testing: Evaluating heart function during physical activity
- Cardiac MRI: Detailed imaging for complex anatomy or tissue characterization
- Cardiac catheterization: Invasive procedure for detailed hemodynamic assessment and interventions
Treatment Options
- Observation and monitoring for mild conditions that may resolve naturally
- Medications to control heart rhythm, strengthen heart function, or reduce symptoms
- Catheter-based interventions: Balloon dilation, stent placement, or device closure of defects
- Referral for cardiac surgery when surgical repair or palliation is needed
- Electrophysiology procedures including catheter ablation for arrhythmias
- Device implantation (pacemakers, defibrillators) for specific rhythm disorders
- Heart transplant evaluation and management for end-stage heart disease
- Coordination of care with other specialists and schools for comprehensive support
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your pediatric cardiologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Pediatric Cardiologist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a pediatric cardiologist.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification in Pediatric Cardiology by the American Board of Pediatrics
- Completion of an ACGME-accredited 3-year pediatric cardiology fellowship
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Additional fellowship training for subspecialty expertise (interventional, electrophysiology)
- Hospital privileges at a children's hospital or pediatric cardiac center
- Membership in American College of Cardiology and/or American Academy of Pediatrics
Important Considerations
- Experience treating your child's specific heart condition
- Access to comprehensive pediatric cardiac services including surgery and catheterization
- Affiliation with a dedicated children's hospital or pediatric heart center
- Experience with fetal cardiology if prenatal evaluation is needed
- Availability for urgent consultations and emergencies
- Communication style and ability to explain complex conditions to families
- Coordination with your pediatrician and other specialists
- Transition planning services for adolescents moving to adult care
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple pediatric cardiologists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a pediatric cardiologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$250-$500 (comprehensive consultation)
Follow-up Visit
$150-$300
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover pediatric cardiology services when medically necessary
- Congenital heart disease treatment is covered under essential health benefits
- Many diagnostic tests require prior authorization from insurance
- In-network pediatric cardiologists reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly
- CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) covers cardiology services for eligible families
- Some states mandate coverage for fetal echocardiography with risk factors
Medicare Information
Medicare typically does not cover pediatric services as it primarily serves adults over 65. However, children with End-Stage Renal Disease or certain disabilities may qualify. Most children receive coverage through private insurance, Medicaid, or CHIP programs.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your pediatric cardiologist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Pediatric Cardiologist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a pediatric cardiologist.
What is my child's specific heart condition and how serious is it?
Will my child need surgery or other interventions? If so, when?
Are there any activity restrictions my child should follow?
What symptoms should prompt me to seek emergency care?
How will this condition affect my child's growth and development?
Is this condition genetic? Should other family members be screened?
What is the long-term outlook for my child's heart condition?
Will my child need lifelong cardiac follow-up?
Are there any dietary or lifestyle modifications we should make?
What resources are available for families of children with heart conditions?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a pediatric cardiologist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Blue or gray skin color (cyanosis), especially around lips and fingernails - may indicate inadequate oxygen
- Severe difficulty breathing, gasping, or grunting respirations in infants
- Sudden loss of consciousness or fainting during physical activity
- Chest pain with exertion, especially if associated with dizziness or palpitations
- Rapid heart rate that does not resolve with rest, especially in infants (over 200 beats per minute)
- Signs of heart failure: extreme fatigue, swelling, and difficulty feeding in infants
- Prolonged high fever (5+ days) with other symptoms suggesting Kawasaki disease
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Adult Cardiologist
Adult cardiologists primarily treat acquired heart diseases like coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and heart failure in adults. Pediatric cardiologists specialize in congenital heart defects and childhood heart conditions, with training specifically focused on the unique anatomy, physiology, and needs of children from before birth through adolescence.
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon
Pediatric cardiac surgeons perform the surgical repairs of congenital heart defects and other heart conditions in children. Pediatric cardiologists diagnose heart conditions, provide ongoing medical management, and coordinate care, but do not perform open-heart surgery. The two specialists work closely together as part of a comprehensive cardiac care team.
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Neonatologist
Neonatologists are specialists in newborn medicine who care for premature and critically ill infants. While they manage many medical issues in newborns, they consult pediatric cardiologists for specialized diagnosis and treatment of heart defects. Pediatric cardiologists focus specifically on cardiac conditions across all pediatric ages, not just newborns.
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Pediatrician
Pediatricians are primary care physicians who provide comprehensive care for children's general health needs. When a pediatrician detects a heart murmur or suspects a cardiac condition, they refer to a pediatric cardiologist for specialized evaluation. Pediatric cardiologists have additional years of training specifically in diagnosing and treating children's heart conditions.
Pediatric Cardiologist vs. Adult Electrophysiologist
Adult electrophysiologists specialize in heart rhythm disorders in adults. Pediatric cardiologists with electrophysiology training focus on rhythm disorders in children, which often have different causes (like congenital abnormal electrical pathways) than adult arrhythmias. Pediatric electrophysiologists use specialized equipment sized for children and understand the unique aspects of treating young patients.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about pediatric cardiologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about pediatric cardiologist
What is the difference between a pediatric cardiologist and an adult cardiologist?
Pediatric cardiologists complete specialized training focused on heart conditions in children, including 3 years of pediatric residency and 3 years of pediatric cardiology fellowship. They are experts in congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth), which differ significantly from the acquired heart diseases (like coronary artery disease) that adult cardiologists primarily treat. Children's hearts are anatomically and physiologically different from adult hearts, requiring specialized equipment, medications dosed by weight, and expertise in managing growing patients. Pediatric cardiologists also have training in communicating with families and children of all ages.
Is a heart murmur in my child serious?
The majority of heart murmurs in children are 'innocent' or 'functional' murmurs that are harmless and do not indicate any heart problem. These are caused by normal blood flow through a healthy heart and often disappear as children grow. However, some murmurs can indicate structural heart defects or other conditions requiring treatment. A pediatric cardiologist can differentiate between innocent and pathologic murmurs through a physical examination and, if needed, an echocardiogram. If your child's murmur is deemed innocent, no treatment or activity restrictions are needed.
Can congenital heart defects be detected before birth?
Yes, many congenital heart defects can be detected during pregnancy through fetal echocardiography, a specialized ultrasound of the baby's heart typically performed between 18-24 weeks of gestation. Prenatal detection allows for counseling, planning delivery at a hospital with pediatric cardiac capabilities, and immediate intervention after birth if needed. Fetal echocardiography is recommended when routine prenatal ultrasound raises concerns, when there is a family history of congenital heart disease, or when maternal conditions like diabetes increase risk.
What happens when my child with a heart condition becomes an adult?
The transition from pediatric to adult care is an important process that pediatric cardiologists help coordinate. Many patients with congenital heart disease now survive into adulthood and need lifelong cardiac follow-up. Pediatric cardiologists work with Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) specialists to ensure a smooth transition, typically beginning in mid-adolescence. ACHD specialists are cardiologists with additional training in the unique needs of adults who were born with heart defects. The transition process includes education about the patient's condition, medications, and signs of complications.
How often will my child need to see a pediatric cardiologist?
The frequency of follow-up visits depends on your child's specific condition and its severity. Children with innocent heart murmurs may not need any follow-up after initial evaluation. Those with minor defects might be seen annually or every few years. Children with moderate to severe heart disease or after cardiac surgery typically need more frequent visits, often every 3-6 months. Your pediatric cardiologist will create a personalized follow-up schedule and adjust it as your child grows and their condition changes.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards