Jonathan Vafai, MD
A board-certified cardiologist, bringing nearly two decades in cardiovascular medicine to the prevention, diagnosis, and long-term treatment of heart conditions.
About
Dr. Vafai has been seeing patients at South Florida Heart Institute in Delray Beach since 2011.
Since beginning advanced cardiology fellowship training in 2007, Dr. Vafai has devoted nearly two decades to cardiovascular medicine.
He chairs the Department of Cardiology at Delray Medical Center, where he also serves as Medical Director of the Echocardiography Laboratory, and previously served as Vice-Chairman of the Department of Medicine from 2018 to 2020. He is core clinical faculty for the FAU Cardiology Fellowship at Florida Atlantic University's Schmidt College of Medicine, mentoring two fellows each year in echocardiography and cardiac imaging.
He trained at NYU School of Medicine, completed internal medicine training at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Harvard Medical School), and served as Chief Fellow during his cardiology fellowship with the NYU program at Northwell Health. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and the American Society of Echocardiography.
Philosophy of care
Cardiology has been my sole focus and life's work. I care deeply about my patients and approach every visit the way I would want my own family to be treated—with time, honesty, compassion, and respect.
My philosophy is lifestyle first whenever possible. Exercise, nutrition, and daily habits form the foundation of heart health, and medications or procedures are added thoughtfully when they truly serve your best interest. When I make a recommendation, it is never routine—it is based on experience, evidence, and a genuine belief that it is right for you.
My role is to educate, guide, and offer clear advice; your role is to make the decisions that feel right for your life and values. The best care happens when we work together through shared decision-making.
I have trained at leading hospitals in New York and Boston, and that experience continues to guide my care today. Even while practicing here in Florida, I rely on a broad national perspective and a trusted network of outstanding specialists. When referrals are needed, I send patients to people I trust and would confidently recommend to my own family.
I am deeply grateful for the trust my patients place in me. It is a privilege to care for you and to be part of your team.
— Jonathan Vafai, MD
Clinical focus
Clinical cardiology
Comprehensive cardiology care in the office and at Delray Medical Center.
Cardio-oncology
A recognized regional niche: dedicated cardiac monitoring for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, in partnership with oncologists at Delray Medical Center and area cancer centers.
Echocardiography
Medical Director of the Echocardiography Laboratory at Delray Medical Center; recertified by the National Board of Echocardiography (ASCeXAM) in 2022.
Structural heart disease
Participates in research evaluating catheter-based treatments for certain heart-valve conditions.
Quality & education
Leads departmental quality-improvement work as Chairman and mentors fellows in imaging as core faculty for the FAU cardiology program.
Conditions treated
Media
Meet the Doctor
A short introduction to Dr. Vafai's practice and approach to cardiac care, produced by Palm Beach Health Network.
Watch the video ↗On WPTV: Cardio-Oncology
Dr. Vafai is interviewed on WPTV about Delray Medical Center's cardio-oncology program, which monitors heart health during cancer treatment.
Watch the segment ↗On CBS12: Damar Hamlin
Dr. Vafai speaks with CBS12 about Damar Hamlin's on-field collapse, explaining commotio cordis and how rare cardiac arrest is among athletes.
Read the segment ↗Heart Month
It's Heart Month! Dr. Vafai, Chair of Cardiology at Delray Medical Center, talks about heart disease and how you can stay heart-healthy.
Watch the video ↗South Florida Heart Institute
Boca Raton Observer profiles the Castle Connolly-recognized cardiologists of South Florida Heart Institute, including Dr. Vafai, Chief of Cardiology at Delray Medical Center.
Read the profile ↗Patient reviews
"Always very professional, caring, thorough, a good listener and a great problem solver."
"Dr. Vafai is outstanding, knowledgeable, and exceptionally responsive to messages."
"A caring and competent cardiologist who invests time to analyze and evaluate the patient's condition."
"He's a great guy and great doctor. If someone said they didn't like something about him, it's them. FYI."
"On a scale of 1 to 10, Dr. Vafai would get it a 15."
"I have been a patient of Dr. Vafai for a number of years and have recommended a number of people to his practice. I have a high regard for his knowledge, expertise, experience and concern for his patient's overall health."
"Dr. Vafai is beyond the most amazing doctor I have ever been cared by!"
"Dr Vafai is the best of the best. He has always made me feel comfortable and safe."
What to expect on your first visit
A little preparation helps your first appointment run smoothly and gives Dr. Vafai the fullest picture of your heart health from day one.
Frequently asked questions
Do you accept my insurance plan?
Please call the office for these details. We take most major insurances.
Can I walk in, or do I need a scheduled appointment?
Please call for an appointment. You may be advised to speak with a nurse to help triage your issue. If the issue is urgent, you may be advised to go to the ER.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately — do not wait for a callback from the office.
How do I request medication refills?
You can call the office and leave a message, or request a refill through the patient portal.
What is the cancellation or late-arrival policy?
We appreciate advance notice, as other patients may have urgent issues and want to be seen. If you are more than 5–10 minutes late for your appointment, you will be asked to reschedule.