At a glance
- How long
- 30–45 minutes
- How to prepare
- A few simple steps Preparation instructions
- Cost
- Covered by OHIP With a requisition
- Results
- 24 to 48 hours Report sent to your doctor
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It uses sound waves to create real-time images, allowing doctors to assess how your heart looks and functions.
What it evaluates
- Heart structure and size
- Heart chambers and muscle function
- Heart valve function
- Blood flow through the heart (Doppler)
- Ejection fraction, how well your heart pumps
Why it is done
- Investigate symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations
- Detect heart conditions or abnormalities
- Monitor known heart disease
What to expect
- Safe and non-invasive
- No radiation
- Performed using a handheld probe on the chest
- Quick and comfortable, usually 30 to 45 minutes
How to prepare
- No preparation needed
- Wear a two-piece outfit
- Take your medication as usual
Where to have it done
Find a clinic near you
More about this exam
Common questions
How long does an echocardiogram take?
An echocardiogram usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to check in with your health card and requisition.
How do I prepare for an echocardiogram?
No special preparation is needed. Take your medication as usual and wear a two-piece outfit, since you will undress from the waist up and wear a gown.
What is the difference between an echocardiogram and a Holter monitor?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart, done in the clinic, that shows how the chambers, valves and heart muscle look and move. A Holter monitor is a small recorder you wear at home for 24 to 72 hours that records your heart rhythm. Your doctor decides which one you need.
Is an echocardiogram covered by OHIP?
Yes, with a valid Ontario health card and a requisition. Without OHIP, Bluewater's self-pay price for an echocardiogram is $380, as of October 2026.