What is the Purpose of an Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)?

An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) is used to examine the electrical activity in the heart over a few seconds using ten (10) electrodes on the skin. This test helps your doctor determine if you have structural cardiovascular abnormalities such as chamber enlargements or damage to your heart’s tissue, e.g., from a previous heart attack.


What do I have to do?

When you arrive at NovaMed, one of our cardiac technicians, registered practical nurses or exercise physiologists will explain the test to you and place ten (10) electrodes on your chest to connect to our equipment. A resting, 12-lead electrocardiogram reading will then be done in a matter of several seconds. The results will later be provided to your referring physician for analysis.

NovaMed Diagnostics conducts electrocardiogram for individuals referred by their physician, and the tests are covered by OHIP.