About
As a skilled Cardiologist, Dr. Martin van Zyl offers expert cardiovascular care and management for adult patients. Practicing in Victoria, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. Dr. van Zyl adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality and ethical practice. His role focuses on diagnosing and treating a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, with a particular interest in comprehensive cardiac assessment and management.
Dr. van Zyl graduated with a MB BCh BAO from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2014 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Cardiology. He holds key certifications recognized by the College Registration Committee, including specialized training in advanced cardiovascular procedures and management. His education and certifications reflect his commitment to maintaining up-to-date, evidence-based practices in cardiology.
Dr. van Zyl's clinical philosophy centers on providing clear, educational communication to empower patients in their care. He is committed to delivering personalized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each individual. Fluent in English, he is dedicated to accessible and compassionate care for residents of Victoria and the surrounding areas. He practices with a focus on professionalism, integrity, and patient-centered service.
Dr. van Zyl provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)
- Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate) & Heart Block: Diagnosing causes of slow heart rates and conduction system problems, including assessing the need for pacemakers.
- Evaluation of Palpitations: Investigating sensations of skipped beats, fluttering, racing, or pounding heartbeats to determine the underlying cause and significance.
- Syncope (Fainting) - Cardiac Causes: Cardiovascular assessment to identify or rule out heart-related causes of fainting or loss of consciousness.
Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
- 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.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care: Comprehensive follow-up care focused on recovery, secondary prevention, risk factor management, and medication optimization after a heart attack.
- 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.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. van Zyl is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
- Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
- 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. van Zyl. 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. van Zyl primarily practices at medical facilities located near the central Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. These facilities are easily accessible via the major North-South Route and are well served by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Patients can expect convenient access to appointments, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients coming by car.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. van Zyl covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. van Zyl 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. van Zyl?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. van Zyl. 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 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). They perform specialized tests (like EP studies) and procedures such as catheter ablation or implanting pacemakers/defibrillators. Dr. van Zyl may refer patients with complex arrhythmias to an EP specialist if needed. As a Cardiac Electrophysiologist, Dr. van Zyl specializes in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders, including performing procedures like ablation or device implantation.
3680 Uptown Blvd Bldg N, Pulse Complete Cardiac Care
Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9
Phone: (250) 595-1551 | Fax: (250) 595-1000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. van Zyl 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/336330/van%20Zyl%2CMartin