Dr. Anthony James Della Siega – Cardiologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Anthony James Della Siega is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Victoria, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality and safety in all aspects of patient care. His focus is on providing compassionate, comprehensive cardiovascular services tailored to the needs of each individual patient.

Dr. Della Siega graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 1994 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology. He holds certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in cardiologic practice. His training includes specialized assessments and management strategies for a broad spectrum of heart conditions.

With a reassuring and patient-focused approach, Dr. Della Siega is committed to delivering personalized care to his patients in Victoria. He speaks fluent English and is dedicated to making every patient encounter informative and comfortable. His clinical philosophy emphasizes listening carefully to patients' concerns, educating them about their health, and working collaboratively to develop effective treatment plans.

Dr. Della Siega provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
• Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.
• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.
• Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

• Management Post-Heart Transplant: Specialized follow-up care for patients who have received a heart transplant (often in dedicated clinics).
• Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
• Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Della Siega is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
• Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) Interpretation: Analyzing 24-hour blood pressure readings to diagnose hypertension, assess treatment effectiveness, and identify patterns like 'white coat' hypertension.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Della Siega. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Della Siega primarily practices at medical facilities located in central Victoria, BC, offering convenient access for patients in the region. The clinics are situated near major routes such as the Saanich Highway and other key north-south arteries, making travel straightforward for local residents. Patients can reach the location via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring easy public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Della Siega covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Della Siega are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Della Siega?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Della Siega. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

How should I prepare for a stress test?

Specific instructions will be provided when your test is booked. Generally, you may be asked to avoid caffeine for several hours beforehand, wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing, and potentially hold certain heart medications (like beta-blockers) on the day of the test. Always confirm instructions with the testing facility or Dr. Della Siega's office.

What is a Cardiac Electrophysiologist (EP)?

An Electrophysiologist is a Cardiologist who specializes further in the heart's electrical system and treats heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) like evaluation of palpitations. They perform specialized tests (like EP studies) and procedures such as catheter ablation or implanting pacemakers/defibrillators. Dr. Della Siega may refer patients with complex arrhythmias to an EP specialist if needed. As a Cardiac Electrophysiologist, Dr. Della Siega specializes in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders, including performing procedures like ablation or device implantation.

Can my spouse or family member come with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support or to help listen and ask questions during your appointment with Dr. Della Siega. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

300-3680 Uptown Blvd
Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9

Phone: (250) 595-1551 | Fax: (250) 595-1000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Della Siega is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/311609/Della%20Siega%2CAnthony