What to Expect
The best way to make any trip to the Heart Center – whether for a test, a procedure or surgery – is to come prepared.
In this section, we’ll help you learn what to expect before, during and after a visit. You’ll also find answers to common questions.
Epic, Our New Electronic Health Record, Launched October 3
We are excited to launch Epic, our new electronic health record! You may notice us doing things differently, such as using more electronic devices and less paper. As always, your safety is our highest priority and we are here to answer any questions you may have.
If you have an upcoming appointment:
- Make sure to be at the registration desk no later than 15 minutes before your appointment. This may mean that you need to arrive at the clinic location 20–25 minutes before the appointment, so you can complete parking and entrance procedures before registration. This will help us ensure that your visit can begin on time.
- Bring your current medication list so we can check our records carefully and make sure everything is correct.
COVID-19: What to Expect for Your Child’s Safety at In-Person Appointments
We’ve made a lot of changes to our facilities to protect our patients, families and staff from covid-19. Every patient is allowed to have a maximum of one parent or caregiver accompany them. Everyone else, including siblings of any age, may not come along. When you come for your appointment, you will see that we’re requiring everyone to wear masks at all times, cleaning check-in and registration desks between visits, screening for symptoms at all entrances and have set up our spaces to encourage social distancing. Watch what to expect at your clinic visit during COVID-19 (video). Learn more about the rest of the safety measures we have in place.
Heart Center Clinic
Common Tests
Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory
Pacemaker and Defibrillator Implantation
Heart Surgery
- Read about how to prepare for heart surgery. This may help reduce stress related to the surgery.
Your Child’s Stay at Seattle Children’s
Find out what you need to know about your child's hospital stay, including:
- Things to do before your child’s arrival
- Preparing your child for a hospital stay
- What to expect during your child’s stay
- Helpful questions to ask your child’s doctor
- Information to help you after your child goes home
- Read about our Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
Telemedicine at Seattle Children’s
You may be offered a telehealth (virtual) appointment. Learn more.
Paying for Care
Learn about paying for care at Seattle Children’s including insurance coverage, billing and financial assistance.
Contact Us
Contact the Heart Center at 206-987-2015 for a cardiac referral, a second opinion or more information.