Dr. Robert Thomas Kay – Cardiologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Robert Thomas Kay, a respected Cardiologist, focuses on evidence-based cardiology practice and personalized patient treatment plans. Practicing in Edmonton, AB, he serves patients from the surrounding region. He adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring quality and safe clinical care. Dr. Kay provides comprehensive care in Cardiology, addressing a broad spectrum of cardiovascular health concerns for adult patients.

Dr. Kay graduated with a MBBChBAO in 2017 from Ireland and completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology. His education and training encompass core competencies in diagnosing, managing, and treating a wide range of heart and vascular conditions, supported by board-certification and ongoing professional development.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism and clinical excellence, with a strong commitment to delivering patient-centered care in Edmonton. Dr. Kay speaks fluent English and prioritizes clear communication, evidence-based treatment, and compassionate care to optimize patient outcomes.

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

Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)

• Evaluation of Palpitations: Investigating sensations of skipped beats, fluttering, racing, or pounding heartbeats to determine the underlying cause and significance.
• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) & Atrial Flutter: Diagnosis, rhythm and rate control strategies, and assessment for stroke prevention therapy (anticoagulation).
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Evaluation and management of various types of rapid heart rhythms originating above the ventricles.

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

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.
• 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.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Kay 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.
• Sports Cardiology Consultation: Evaluating cardiovascular health and risk in athletes or highly active individuals.
• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• Interventional Cardiology Consultation: Assessing suitability for procedures like coronary angiography, angioplasty, and stenting.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Kay. 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. Kay primarily practices at medical facilities located in the south-central area of Edmonton, including the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The practice is conveniently situated near the Neon Sign Museum and the 4th Street Promenade, providing an accessible and central location for patients. The facilities are easily reachable via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The practice location is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility for patients' convenience.

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

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

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kay. 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. Kay's office manages scheduled consultations and cannot provide emergency care.

What is an Interventional Cardiologist?

An Interventional Cardiologist is a Cardiologist with additional specialized training in performing catheter-based procedures like angioplasty and stenting to treat blocked coronary arteries. While Dr. Kay provides expert medical management, he may refer patients to an interventional colleague if these procedures are indicated. As an Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Kay performs procedures like angioplasty and stenting in addition to providing cardiology consultations.

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.

What are some common heart tests Dr. Robert Thomas Kay 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.

8440 112 St NW, 2C2 Division of Cardiology
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 407-6507 | Fax: (780) 407-6452

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kay 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=345586ea-feb9-4985-a954-3eae8f128ca9&i=732