For nearly two years, I repeatedly expressed concerns to Dr. Bartzokis about my coronary calcium…read morescore of 620. My understanding is that a calcium score this high indicates significant plaque buildup, and I was concerned because the score itself does not identify where the blockages are located. Each time I raised my concerns, they were dismissed, with comments that he had patients with calcium scores much higher than mine.
In April, while riding my bike, my smartwatch alerted me that my heart rate had reached 172 bpm. Initially, I thought the watch might be malfunctioning, but I did not feel well. Two days later, while simply walking, my heart rate rose to 148 bpm. Concerned, I immediately contacted my primary care physician, who saw me the same day. After performing an EKG, he diagnosed me with atrial fibrillation, prescribed Eliquis and medication to control my heart rate, and strongly advised me to see my cardiologist as soon as possible.
I contacted Dr. Bartzokis' office but did not receive a return call. The following morning, I called again and was told to come into the office around 11:00 a.m. A nurse performed another EKG, which happened to be normal at that moment. I explained that I had recently been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, was experiencing chest pain, did not feel well, and remained extremely concerned about my calcium score.
The nurse told me she would ask Dr. Bartzokis to come in and see me. She returned with a heart monitor and informed me that he was too busy and that I should come back in a week. While she was attaching the monitor, I again emphasized that I had recently been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, had chest pain, and had been expressing concerns about my elevated calcium score for two years. She again said she would speak with him. When she returned, she once more informed me that he was too busy to see me.
Two nights later, my smartwatch alerted me that my heart rate had reached 148 bpm while I was sleeping. The following morning, it remained around 142 bpm. My wife drove me to the emergency room, where I was immediately admitted to the hospital.
After evaluation, I underwent a cardiac catheterization procedure. The results revealed two significant blockages: one at 90% and another at 70%. Two stents were required. I was informed that the 90% blockage involved a major coronary artery often referred to as the "widow-maker."
What is most upsetting to me is that I sought help repeatedly. I reported atrial fibrillation, chest pain, elevated heart rates, and longstanding concerns about a high calcium score. Despite these warning signs, I was never seen by Dr. Bartzokis during that urgent visit because he was reportedly too busy.
I cannot overstate my disappointment with the lack of urgency, concern, and communication I experienced. Based on my personal experience, I do not feel that my symptoms were taken seriously, and I cannot recommend this practice to others seeking responsive cardiac care.
