Dr. Petr Polasek – Cardiologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Petr Polasek, a respected Cardiologist, focuses on evidence-based cardiology practice and personalized patient treatment plans. Practicing in Kelowna, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include Specialty practice - cardiology, with an emphasis on comprehensive cardiovascular care for adult patients.

Dr. Polasek graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Karlovy Vary in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic, in 1984. He completed extensive post-graduate training in cardiology, including certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his expertise aligns with national standards for cardiology specialists.

His clinical philosophy centers on providing professional and evidence-based care, with a strong commitment to patient-centered treatment in Kelowna. Dr. Polasek is fluent in English and Czech, facilitating effective communication and culturally sensitive care for diverse patient populations.

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

Valvular Heart Disease

• Mitral Valve Disease (Stenosis & Regurgitation/Prolapse): Assessment of mitral valve problems, monitoring progression, and managing related complications like arrhythmias or heart failure.
• 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.

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.
• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
• 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.

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

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

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

• Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• 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.
• Management of Cardiovascular Medications: Expert prescribing, titration, and monitoring of medications used to treat various heart conditions and risk factors.
• 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. Polasek. 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. Polasek primarily practices at Royal Inland Hospital, located in the Upper Mission area of Kelowna, BC. The hospital is situated in the Kettle Valley neighborhood, near Orchard Park Mall and Mission Creek Regional Park, providing a scenic and accessible setting for patients. The facility is easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The hospital features modern amenities and is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, offering convenient access for patients and visitors.

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

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

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

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart's electrical activity (ECG) continuously, typically for 24 to 48 hours, while you go about your normal daily activities. It's used to detect heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) that may not occur during a standard brief ECG in the office.

Can heart disease be prevented?

While some risk factors like age and family history cannot be changed, many key risk factors for heart disease *can* be modified or managed. Controlling high blood pressure, managing cholesterol and diabetes, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritiously, exercising regularly, and managing stress significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

How long are cardiology appointments usually?

Your first consultation with Dr. Polasek may take 45-75 minutes to allow for a thorough history and examination. Follow-up visits are typically shorter, around 15-30 minutes, depending on what needs to be discussed or reviewed. Please allow extra time for check-in and potential delays.

Royal Inland Hospital
301-3295 Lakeshore Rd
Kelowna, BC V1W 3S9

Phone: (236) 420-7171 | Fax: (778) 380-0555

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Polasek 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/305010/Polasek%2CPetr