Patient
I was referred to Dr. Valli-Harwood by my PCP after having multiple tests done due to angina symptoms. Stress test results were mostly normal, but a Cardiac CT scan showed an extremely high likelihood of a blockage. I have a family history of heart disease - my father died at age 54 of a massive heart attack, and my mother had double bypass surgery at age 65. After reviewing my test results and family history, Dr. Valli-Harwood's diagnosis was stable angina, and she prescribed exercise through the Cardiac Rehab program. I continued having symptoms and contacted Dr. Valli-Harwood, asking if a cardiac catheterization was warranted. She responded that she felt the risks far outweighed the benefits, and said I should just continue with the exercise program. I sought a second opinion on the advice of my sister-in-law who is a cardiac nurse. The second cardiologist thought that a cardiac catheterization WAS warranted and scheduled me for the procedure. During my procedure he found 3 blockages - one artery was 80% blocked, one was 90% blocked, and one was 100% blocked. He placed cardiac stents right then and there, and I went home later that day. I truly believe he saved my life. I would NOT recommend Dr. Valli-Harwood, as I feel she didn't take my concerns seriously enough and therefore put my life at risk.