Dr. Malay Shukla – Cardiologist | Medicine Hat, AB

Dr. Malay Shukla, a respected Cardiologist, focuses on evidence-based cardiology practice and personalized patient treatment plans. Practicing in Medicine Hat, AB, he serves patients from the surrounding region. Adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), he provides comprehensive care in Cardiology, primarily for adult patients seeking expert cardiovascular evaluation and management.

He graduated with an MBBS in 2002 from India and completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including specialized fellowships and certifications. His training encompasses a broad spectrum of cardiovascular diagnostics and therapeutic procedures, ensuring a high standard of clinical excellence and up-to-date practice.

Dr. Shukla's clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism and patient-centered care. He is committed to providing thorough and compassionate cardiovascular services in Medicine Hat. Fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi, he effectively communicates with diverse patient populations, ensuring clear understanding and collaborative decision-making.

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

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.
• Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD): Ongoing specialized care for adults born with structural heart defects (often requires dedicated ACHD expertise).
• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).

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.
• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.

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.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) Interpretation: Expert analysis of ECG recordings to detect arrhythmias, evidence of heart attacks, chamber enlargement, and other electrical abnormalities.
• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Shukla. 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. Shukla primarily practices at medical facilities located in the NE Crescent Heights and Ranchlands neighborhoods of Medicine Hat. The practice is conveniently situated near the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Grounds and Co-op Place (Arena). Patients can easily access the clinic via Medicine Hat Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

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

Does Dr. Shukla provide refills for my heart medications?

Dr. Shukla 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.

How important is lifestyle in managing my heart condition?

Lifestyle choices are extremely important for both preventing and managing cardiovascular disease. Adopting heart-healthy habits – like regular physical activity, a balanced diet low in sodium and unhealthy fats, smoking cessation, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight – can significantly improve outcomes and complement medical treatments recommended by Dr. Shukla.

What does a Cardiologist specialize in?

A Cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to the heart and blood vessels (the cardiovascular system). This includes conditions like coronary artery disease (Management Post-Heart Transplant), heart attacks, heart failure (Stable Angina Pectoris), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats like Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD)), valve problems, and high blood pressure.

Does Dr. Shukla replace my family doctor for general care?

No, Dr. Shukla 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. Shukla collaborates closely with your family doctor, providing reports and recommendations.

4 Strachan Crt SE
Medicine Hat, AB T1B 4R7

Phone: (403) 580-8288 | Fax: (403) 580-8233

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Shukla 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=a13b9d25-1005-4a0f-a0b4-7e8b55669d50&i=1330