An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) records the heart’s electrical activity. A cardiac stress test evaluates how the heart responds to exercise or medication under monitored conditions.
Cardiac Testing Services
Coordinated Access to Stress Testing and EKG
MARS Healthcare helps patients and referring physicians navigate scheduling, estimate guidance, and access to appropriate partner facilities.
Understanding Stress Test / EKG
Coordinated Access to Stress Testing and EKG
Your ordering clinician determines which examination is appropriate. MARS Healthcare coordinates access through partner facilities; we do not perform examinations or provide medical advice.
Common Examinations
- Resting EKG/ECG
- Exercise treadmill stress test
- Stress echocardiography
- Nuclear stress testing
- Pharmacologic stress testing
- Ambulatory monitoring when separately ordered
Availability and preparation requirements vary by examination and partner facility.
Why This Test May Be Ordered
Heart Rhythm
An EKG can identify rate, rhythm, and electrical-pattern abnormalities.
Symptoms & Exercise Response
Stress testing may evaluate chest discomfort, shortness of breath, exercise tolerance, or suspected coronary disease.
Treatment & Risk Assessment
Testing may support pre-procedure evaluation or monitoring of known heart disease.
What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
- Follow facility instructions about eating, caffeine, smoking, and medications.
- Do not stop prescribed medication unless your clinician specifically instructs you.
- Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes for an exercise test.
- Tell staff about current symptoms, pregnancy, breathing problems, mobility limitations, and implanted cardiac devices.
During the Examination
- For an EKG, electrodes are placed on the chest and limbs while you rest.
- For a stress test, heart rhythm, blood pressure, and symptoms are monitored.
- Exercise may occur on a treadmill or bicycle; medication may be used when exercise is not appropriate.
- Report chest pain, severe shortness of breath, dizziness, or other symptoms immediately.
Cardiac Testing Safety
Stress testing is performed with clinical monitoring and predefined stopping criteria. The testing facility determines the appropriate protocol based on the order, health history, mobility, and clinical risk.
Important: The partner facility makes final clinical and safety determinations according to the order, patient history, and its protocols.
How MARS Healthcare Coordinates Your Test
01
Send Your Request
Share the ordered examination, preferred area, and scheduling details.
02
Review Options
We identify appropriate partner options based on location, availability, and test requirements.
03
Estimate & Schedule
We provide available estimate guidance and coordinate scheduling after required information is complete.
04
Complete Your Test
The partner facility performs the examination and handles clinical procedures and reporting.
Stress Test / EKG Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an EKG and a stress test?
An EKG records heart electrical activity at rest; a stress test evaluates the heart under increased workload.
Can I take my medications?
Follow the ordering clinician’s and facility’s instructions; some medications can affect test results.
What if I cannot exercise?
A clinician may order a medication-based stress protocol when appropriate.
When should I seek urgent care?
New or severe chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or other emergency symptoms require immediate medical evaluation—not routine scheduling.
Need Help Coordinating Stress Test / EKG?
Request estimate guidance and coordinated scheduling support through the MARS Healthcare partner network. Availability, eligibility, and final cost depend on the examination and facility.