Is it better for a teen to see a regular cardiologist or a pediatric cardiologist?

Pediatric (usually): In general, there are enough differences betwwen adolescent and adult hearts that a pediatric cardiologist is the best way to go. Most adult cardiologists won't see teens under a certain age (?16-18) depending on their training and comfort level.

Peds Cardiology: Pediatric cardiologists are trained in taking care of teenagers. The focus of most adult cardiologists is related to adult-onset coronary artery disease and cardiac dysfunction. Many states discourage adult cardiologists from seeing any teenagers. Mainly due to the fact that adult cardiologists do not have pediatric board certification and may not be covered by malpractice insurance.

Transition: The american academy of pediatrics has recently suggested that children who have been followed by pediatric cardiologist should begin transitioning to adult cardiologists for better continuity of care.

Pediatric: Most adult cardiologist in larger cities will not see children under 18. In smaller towns they may as a service to the community. Adult cardiologists are routinely trained to see full grown adults, not adolescents.