Diagnose, treat, manage, and prevent diseases or conditions of the cardiovascular system. May further subspecialize in interventional procedures (e.g., balloon angioplasty and stent placement), echocardiography, or electrophysiology.
SOC: 29-1212.00
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate complex cardiovascular conditions using diagnostic imaging, laboratory results, and clinical presentations in acute and outpatient settings, integrating multi-modal data to formulate differential diagnoses.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate evidence-based treatment plans for heart failure, coronary artery disease, and arrhythmias independently managing high-acuity patients while considering comorbidities and patient preferences.
Advanced
KnowledgeInterpret echocardiography, electrocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac imaging studies with precision to detect structural abnormalities, ischemia, and electrophysiological disturbances.
Advanced
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care principles with complex clinical decision-making when discussing prognosis, treatment options, and end-of-life care with patients and families.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign electrophysiology study protocols and ablation strategies for arrhythmia management in specialized EP laboratories, utilizing three-dimensional mapping systems and advanced catheter technologies.
Advanced
Hands-onPerform interventional cardiology procedures including balloon angioplasty, stent placement, and catheterizations in catheterization laboratories under fluoroscopic guidance, adhering to radiation safety protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess cardiovascular risk factors and implement preventive cardiology strategies in longitudinal patient care, incorporating lifestyle modification counseling and pharmacologic interventions.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize clinical data from electronic health record systems including Epic and MEDITECH to coordinate multidisciplinary cardiovascular care and ensure continuity across care transitions.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for evidence-based cardiovascular disease management and quality improvement initiatives within interdisciplinary teams and hospital committees, balancing clinical outcomes with resource utilization.
Proficient
KnowledgeDefend clinical decisions and treatment recommendations during peer review and morbidity conferences using current literature and guideline-based rationale for complex or high-risk cases.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cardiologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
18,020
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $119,970. 25th percentile: U.S. $230,100. 50th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 75th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 90th percentile: U.S. $239,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$119,970
10% of workers earn the following or more
$239,200+
Workers on average earn
$432,490
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
