What Is a Holter Monitor?

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart’s electrical activity for 24 hours. Unlike a standard electrocardiogram (ECG), which only captures a few seconds of your heart rhythm, a Holter monitor tracks your heart continuously as you go about your normal day.

It’s commonly used to diagnose:

• Intermittent arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
• Unexplained dizziness or fainting
• Palpitations or skipped beats
• Chest pain or tightness not explained by other tests
• Response to heart medications
• Follow-up monitoring for known heart conditions

If your symptoms come and go, a Holter monitor can capture the activity that standard in-clinic tests might miss.

When Should You Get a Holter Monitor?

Your GP or cardiologist may refer you for Holter monitoring if:

• You’ve had unexplained fainting episodes
• You report a fluttering or pounding heart sensation
• A routine ECG was abnormal or inconclusive
• You’re being treated for arrhythmias and need progress tracking
• You’ve experienced sudden fatigue or shortness of breath

Some patients also wear a blood pressure monitor simultaneously to assess how blood pressure and heart rhythm interact.

Don’t ignore persistent or unusual symptoms; early detection could prevent more serious cardiac events.

What to Expect During Holter Monitoring

At SmartCare Diagnostics, the Holter monitoring process is usually quick, comfortable, and explained clearly before you leave the clinic. Here’s how it works:

1. At your appointment, an ECG is performed prior to Holter monitor application. The skin is prepared using an alcohol wipe and gently exfoliated to enhance electrode adhesion.
2. After the ECG, the Holter monitor will be set up. To do this, a technician will place small electrodes on your chest, which are connected to the Holter device.
3. You’ll be shown how to wear the monitor discreetly under clothing.
4. You’ll wear the device for 24 hours, while maintaining your normal activities, work, errands, and even sleep.
5. You’ll keep a diary of symptoms, such as dizziness or chest pain, along with the time they occurred.
6. After the test, you’ll return the device and your notes to the clinic for analysis.

How Much Does It Cost?

At SmartCare Diagnostics, Holter monitoring is bulk billed for eligible patients, meaning:

• No out-of-pocket fees if you have a Medicare card
• A valid referral from your GP or specialist is required
• Services fall under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)

If you’re unsure whether your test is covered, just ask. We’re happy to discuss cost-related questions and help guide you through the Medicare eligibility process.

Where Can I Get a Holter Monitor in Brisbane?

SmartCare Diagnostics provides Holter monitoring at the following convenient locations across Brisbane:

• North Lakes
• Springfield
• Taringa
• Upper Mt. Gravatt
• Capalaba
• Gatton

All our clinics are equipped with modern cardiac diagnostic tools and staffed by qualified professionals who will ensure you're informed every step of the way.

What Happens After the Test?

After you return the device, our cardiac technicians and reporting specialists analyse your heart rhythm recordings. The results are sent directly to your referring doctor, who will review and discuss them with you.

If abnormalities are found, such as skipped beats, atrial fibrillation, or pauses, your doctor will recommend the next steps. This may include:

• Medication adjustments
• Further cardiac testing
• Lifestyle changes
• Referral to a cardiologist

Why Choose SmartCare Diagnostics?

We make cardiac diagnostics easier by combining:

• Accessible testing locations across Brisbane
• Same-week appointments
• Bulk billing for eligible referrals
• Fast turnaround on results
• A caring, professional team that understands your health concerns

In addition to Holter monitors, we also offer ECG, echocardiograms, and exercise stress tests, all aimed at providing comprehensive cardiac services under one roof.

How to Book

Getting started is simple:

1. Visit your GP or specialist for a referral
2. Contact your nearest SmartCare Diagnostics clinic
3. Bring your referral and Medicare card to your appointment

We’ll take care of the rest and answer any questions you have about the test, the device, or the results.

A Holter monitor is a powerful diagnostic tool for detecting hidden or intermittent heart rhythm issues. At SmartCare Diagnostics, we aim to make the process easy, comfortable, and affordable, with bulk-billed diagnostics available at locations throughout Brisbane, including North Lakes, Springfield, Taringa, Capalaba, Upper Mt. Gravatt and Gatton.

If you're experiencing symptoms like palpitations or dizziness, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor today, get a referral, and let SmartCare help you get the answers your heart needs.

 

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Outcomes vary between individuals. Always seek the advice of your GP, specialist, or another appropriately qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Where further or specialised care is required, your treating practitioner can provide an appropriate referral.