Dr Allan Harkness

My practice covers the whole spectrum of adult cardiology including chest pain, breathlessness, heart failure, high blood pressure, cholesterol, murmurs, blackouts and palpitations. I trained as a Cardiologist and Physician in Glasgow and London, including such leading centres as The Heart Hospital and The Royal Free Hospital.

As a Consultant accredited in both Cardiology and General Medicine, I offer a more holistic review when considering problems that may be related to your heart.

My patient feedback reflects my patient-centred approach to medicine. I believe our consultation should fully involve you in the decisions to come to a diagnosis and management plan. My clinic letters are to you and copied to the GP for their information — not the other way round.

Leading Services Across Essex and Suffolk

I have played a leading role in the development of Cardiac Services across Essex and Suffolk. In 2006, I was appointed Consultant Cardiologist at Colchester Hospital and at the Essex Cardiothoracic Centre since it opened in 2007. I have extensive experience of managing patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings as well as undertaking many investigations and procedures myself.

In 2010, I became the Clinical Lead for Cardiology at Colchester Hospital. Using this opportunity, I developed Colchester’s cardiac services extensively, leading on valve clinics, heart failure services, MRI compatible pacemakers, stress echo, transoesophageal echo, 3D echo and CT coronary angiography.

In 2017, I was appointed Divisional Director for Medicine and Emergency Care for Colchester Hospital. I served two three-year terms of office, covering the merger with Ipswich Hospital and the Pandemic. In 2023, I was appointed Deputy Associate Medical Director for Patient Safety. I continually look to improve my practice and the standards of care of my team.

Nationally Recognised Expert in Cardiology

I am a principal member of the Education Committee of the British Society of Echocardiography, lecturing at national training programmes. In the last 11 years, I have co-authored over a dozen national guidelines on echocardiography. I developed the BSE app EchoCalc for Android and iPhone – a reference guide for cardiac physiologists used worldwide. In 2019, in recognition of my contribution to education, research, leadership, volunteering and national reputation, the BSE awarded Fellowship of the British Society of Echocardiography. In 2021, for my service and contribution to the advancement of echocardiography, the BSE awarded me their Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arranging a Consultation

I see patient from across Essex and Suffolk. My private practice is at:

• The Oaks Hospital, Colchester, Essex

To arrange a consultation with me, contact my private practice secretary, Claire Osborne, at the Oaks – see contacts.