Dr. Elizabeth Anne Swiggum – Cardiologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Elizabeth Anne Swiggum is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Victoria, BC, she serves patients from the surrounding region. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Swiggum’s focus is on providing comprehensive, evidence-based cardiovascular care tailored to adult patients, with a commitment to improving heart health outcomes within her community.

She earned her medical degree (MD) from Dalhousie University in 1998 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Cardiology, including certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training encompasses a broad spectrum of cardiovascular diagnostics and therapeutics, ensuring her patients receive expert, up-to-date care.

Guided by an evidence-based and informative approach, Dr. Swiggum is committed to delivering patient-centered care in Victoria. She communicates fluently in English and emphasizes clear, compassionate interactions to ensure her patients are well-informed and actively involved in their treatment plans.

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

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD): Ongoing specialized care for adults born with structural heart defects (often requires dedicated ACHD expertise).
• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.
• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.
• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
• Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.

Valvular Heart Disease

• Infective Endocarditis Follow-Up: Managing cardiac health after treatment for infection of the heart valves or lining.
• Aortic Valve Disease (Stenosis & Regurgitation): Monitoring valve function, managing symptoms, and determining the appropriate timing for valve intervention (repair or replacement).
• Post-Valve Surgery / Intervention Follow-Up: Ongoing care and monitoring for patients after surgical or transcatheter heart valve repair or replacement.

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

• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Stress Testing Supervision & Interpretation: Overseeing and interpreting exercise treadmill tests, stress echocardiograms, or nuclear stress tests to assess for coronary artery blockages and exercise capacity.
• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
• Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Swiggum. 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. Swiggum primarily practices at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in the Fairfield East neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The hospital is conveniently located near the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena) and is accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Swiggum 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. Swiggum?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Swiggum. 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.

What should I bring to my first cardiology appointment?

Please bring:

• Your provincial health card (Medical Services Plan (MSP) card).
• The referral letter.
• A complete list of ALL current medications (including doses and frequencies). Bringing the bottles is best.
• A list of past medical conditions, surgeries, and allergies.
• Any relevant medical reports or test results (e.g., recent ECGs, blood work).
• A list of your symptoms and questions for Dr. Swiggum.

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. Swiggum. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

Will Dr. {provider_name} communicate with my family doctor?

Yes, effective communication is key. Dr. Swiggum will send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations back to your referring physician to ensure seamless coordination of your overall medical care.

Does Dr. {provider_name} replace my family doctor for general care?

No, Dr. Swiggum focuses specifically on your cardiovascular health as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor remains central to your overall healthcare, managing other health issues and coordinating routine care. Dr. Swiggum collaborates closely with your family doctor, providing reports and recommendations.

Royal Jubilee Hospital
1952 Bay St, 3 Royal - Heart Function Clinic, Royal Jubilee Hospital
Victoria, BC V8R 1J8

Phone: (250) 519-1601 | Fax: (250) 370-8267

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Swiggum 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/323820/Swiggum%2CElizabeth