Dr. James A. Stone – Cardiologist | Calgary, AB

As a skilled Cardiologist, Dr. James A. Stone offers expert cardiovascular care and management for adult patients. Practicing in Calgary, AB, he serves patients from the surrounding region with a focus on evidence-based, comprehensive cardiology services. Dr. Stone adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, ethical medical practice. His primary role is to provide thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and management of various cardiovascular conditions, aiming to improve patient outcomes through individualized care plans.

Dr. Stone graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Queen's University in 1984 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology. He holds certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC), Certificate of Special Competence in Cardiology (SPEC COMP), and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada (FRCPC). These credentials reflect his commitment to maintaining clinical excellence and staying current with advancements in cardiovascular medicine.

His clinical philosophy is rooted in providing evidence-based and informative care, emphasizing patient education and shared decision-making. Dr. Stone is dedicated to serving the Calgary community with compassion and professionalism. He speaks English fluently and is committed to delivering accessible, patient-centered cardiovascular care tailored to each individual's needs.

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

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

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

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
• Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.
• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).
• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.

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

• Pediatric Cardiology Consultation: Diagnosis and management of heart conditions specifically in infants, children, and adolescents.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• Sports Cardiology Consultation: Evaluating cardiovascular health and risk in athletes or highly active individuals.
• Interventional Cardiology Consultation: Assessing suitability for procedures like coronary angiography, angioplasty, and stenting.
• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Stone. 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 Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Stone primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NW: Edgemont, Hawkwood, and Arbour Lake neighborhoods of Calgary. These facilities are conveniently situated near numerous restaurants, shops, and historic buildings, providing a pleasant environment for patients. Accessibility is excellent via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus routes, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Stone covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Stone are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the testing facility.

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

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stone. 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 if I experience chest pain or other urgent symptoms?

If you experience sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or symptoms suggestive of a stroke (like sudden weakness or speech difficulty), call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment. Dr. Stone's office manages scheduled consultations and cannot provide emergency care.

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

Does Dr. James A. Stone provide refills for my heart medications?

Dr. Stone will typically initiate or adjust specialized heart medications. However, for stable, ongoing prescriptions, refills should generally be obtained through your family doctor, who manages your overall medication list. Please ensure you have enough medication until your next family doctor visit unless instructed otherwise.

What are some common heart tests Dr. Stone might order?

Common tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), Stress Test (treadmill or chemical), Holter monitoring (24hr+ ECG), and blood tests (e.g., cholesterol, kidney function). Depending on your situation, he might also consider Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring, Cardiac CT, MRI, or referral for Cardiac Catheterization if needed. The reason for each test will be explained.

75 Crowfoot Rise NW
Calgary, AB T3G 4P5

Phone: (587) 885-3853 | Fax: (587) 885-3850

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Stone is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=66f27c30-e5c5-4e0e-b2f3-e793551acea0&i=1394