
Highlights
Languages
- Portuguese
- Spanish
- English
About Miguel Leal
Emory Affiliation
Emory Physician Group Practice
Emory Healthcare Network
Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty
Academic Title
Associate Professor
Year Started Practicing
2011
About the Provider
Dr. Leal joined Emory after serving for over a decade as faculty in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine within the Department of Medicine of the University of Wisconsin, where he completed his fellowship training in both Cardiovascular Disease and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology.His passion for medical education and mentorship led him to serve as Program Director of both the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program and the Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Program between the years of 2016 and 2021. He also served as director of Electrophysiology at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans (VA) Hospital, in Madison – WI, between 2011 and 2014, and medical director of the University of Wisconsin Device Clinic and Lead Management Program from 2014 to 2018. Dr. Leal currently serves as a member of the American Heart Association (AHA) Council on Clinical Cardiology - Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee and has contributed as co-author of several clinical practice guidelines issued by the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS). Dr. Leal is also a reviewer for multiple medical journals and high-impact publications and has received several awards recognizing the excellence of his work in the areas of clinical care, education and research. Dr. Leal’s clinical interests include cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs, such as pacemakers and defibrillators), cardiac resynchronization therapy, lead management, laser-assisted lead extraction, leadless cardiac pacing and novel technologies in the field of cardiac pacing and defibrillation.
Interpretive Services
Awards
The University of Wisconsin Housestaff Association Excellence Award (2010)
The University of Wisconsin Department of Medicine Evans-Glassroth Teaching Award (2013)
The UW Cardiovascular Medicine Fellowship Program Teaching Award (2013)
The University of Wisconsin (UW) Health Patient Experience Physician Champion Award (2014)
The Dr. Benjamin and Marian Schuster Award (2018) - established in 2006, this award recognizes deserving individuals who have contributed significantly to the cardiovascular program in the fields of basic and/or clinical research.
The University of Wisconsin Physician Assistant Program Lecturer of the Year Award (2021)
Video
Locations
- Emory Heart & Vascular Center at Decatur
- 2665 North Decatur Road, Ste 240, Decatur, GA 30033
- Get Directions
- phone: 404-778-7667
Expertise
Education
- Fellowship: University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology, 2011
- Fellowship: University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics, Cardiovascular Disease, 2010
- Residency: Louis A. Weiss Memorial Hospital, Internal Medicine, 2007
- Medical Education: Federal University of Ceara, MD, 2001
Board Certifications
- Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology: American Board of Internal Medicine, 2011
- Cardiovascular Disease: American Board of Internal Medicine, 2010
- Internal Medicine: American Board of Internal Medicine, 2006
Ratings & Reviews
5 out of 5
335 ratingsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/25/2026
This visit was all good news considering the excellent treatment I have received over the last four years!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/25/2026
This was a follow/up and we will continue with the same care. No change at this time, but Dr. Leal discussed a pacemaker if things change.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/23/2026
Dr. Leal Is very professional, knowledgeable and thorough. He is nonjudgmental and inspires me to improve my health! He takes his time in explaining things and makes me feel seen as a person!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/21/2026
Everything went very well
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/18/2026
Dr. Leal is excellent in care and communication.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/11/2026
Dr. Leal is truly one of best at what he does and he does on a truly human level.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2026
Dr. Leal is exceptional in his delivery of care. He is not only very skilled, but also listens carefully and is empathetic.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/11/2026
Dr leal is fantastic
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/29/2026
Very attentive and communicated effectively importance to improve areas of daily exercise to further maintain good health
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/24/2026
Dr. Leal is a charming individual with an excellent manner. He gives me an abundance of time to ask questions and seems to value my input. I am very confident that he is capable and has my best interest at heart.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/14/2026
Dr. Leal listens well to my concerns. Gives me valuable feedback and explains his recommendations thoroughly. He is genuinely engaged in the visit and give thoughtful advice and medical help for the problem I have.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/8/2026
Dr. Leal is excellent at explaining things and answering questions
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/7/2026
Excellent!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/31/2025
Dr Leal is very attentive and explains things well. Helpful that he uses verbal and visual explanations
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/30/2025
My care provider was excellent. He listened me my concerns and addressed each one .
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
Dr. Leal has a gentle manner and takes the time to listen and explain everything
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/17/2025
Really appreciate Dr Leal for actually listening to my concerns and taking them seriously and not brushing me off. He's great
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/10/2025
Dr Leal is the best of the best. I fly to Atlanta every year to see himfor this reason.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/3/2025
Dr. Leal is a caring and charming professional. He is patient, informative and kind. He answers all questions and takes time to ensure his answers are understood. He is extremely well-trained and a highly prepared doctor.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/3/2025
Dr. Leal is simply the best in listening, explaining in laymen's terms and has perfect bedside manners!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/28/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2025
Dr. Leal has a great bedside manner. He takes the time to explain his diagnosis and encourages questions or comments to check for patient understanding.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/14/2025
The experience with and recommendations from Dr. Leal were exactly what I needed to hear and implement for my condition. My overall experience with the meeting was excellent!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/8/2025
The doctor was very thorough with explaining my condition and the treatments and the different options that I had. We scheduled my surgery, but he let me know that if at any time I changed my mind just let them know and it would be OK. It's my decision and I appreciate that.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/5/2025
Dr Leal was wonderful. He explained the procedure I previously had done and he showed me on a model of the heart exactly what was fixed.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/4/2025
It was pleasant calm and informative
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/1/2025
Dr. Leal is friendly, respectful, knowledgeable and patient in answering any questions. I always feel listened to and included in treatment planning.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/25/2025
Care provider the best
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/23/2025
Dr Leal is a very nice and knowledgeable Dr,he put me at ease about my heart,please keep him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/22/2025
Dr was very good at explaining what was going to happen. I appreciate the fact that he answered my questions. I am just a little nervous
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/15/2025
All hood
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/6/2025
Dr. Leal's knowledge and communication is excellent! My visit was a dialogue and conversation full of respect with agreed upon clear next steps. Hands down one of my top 3 experiences with a doctor in my lifetime, if not the top.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/1/2025
I would recommend Dr Leal to anyone I knew who has a condition like mine.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/25/2025
Dr. Dotson specifically requested Dr Leah and I am thankful I took her recommendation. Dr. Leah and his staff were nothing short of amazing. Explained exactly what was happening and what my options were perfectly. Would highly recommend both Dr. Dotson and Dr.Leah and their staff.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/24/2025
Dr. Leal was excellent. He came prepared, listened, and gave me a clear understanding of his opinion and recommended next steps and plan of treatment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/21/2025
Good rxplainion
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/20/2025
This dr is compassionate, Intelligent, knowledgeable, skillful, and empathic. Has a wonderful bedside manner. He recognised I am fearful about these cardiac diagnoses and tried his best to explain and reassure me. I liked him from the beginning.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/20/2025
Dr. Leal answered my questions about how to get my heart stronger and keep it strong, with exercise and a heart health diet. I am very happy with him, and he is respectful and polite.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/18/2025
Dr. Leal discussed everything in terms that I understand. He even agreed with the reduction in the meds that I had made.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/4/2025
Took all the time needed to make sure I understood.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/28/2025
I feel Dr Leal was very attentive and thorough. I felt listened to and included in the decisions about my care,
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/20/2025
Would recommend Dr Leal to everyone
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/13/2025
Dr Leal is outstanding
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/12/2025
I'm an old retired cardiac RN. I can't sing enough praises to capture my admiration for this physician. Thorough, clear explanations, answered every question that I had, and made sure I understood. Would not hesitate to come back.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/12/2025
Dr. Leal is excellent and spent a lot of time with me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/25/2025
Dr Leal really connects with a mix of compassion and professionalism
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/19/2025
There is nothing but good!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/15/2025
Dr Leal was very friendly and spent the time necessary to explain the procedure that I need and that had already been scheduled, which gives me confidence in Dr Leal performing the procedure.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/12/2025
The best communication with Dr Leal that I have ever had from any Dr
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/9/2025
Excellent cardiologist
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/29/2025
Visit was with Dr. Leal, he is a very good dr.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/25/2025
Dr. Leal is a great, actually beyond greatI absolutely love this doctor, The care is genuine
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/13/2025
I felt Dr. Leal LISTENED to me and acknowledged my concerns
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/12/2025
As I have stated before , there is no word beyond excellent... But if there were it would apply.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2025
Excellent was the doctor who is taking care of me.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/22/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/19/2025
Dr Leal is understanding and never rushes !!! He listens to me; hearing my concerns .
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/19/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/17/2025
Dr. Leal was very attentive, listened to my concerns and addressed them. Excellent doctor.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/30/2025
Dr. Leal is pleasant and is very expressive with pertinent information about my health issues. He listens to my concerns and tries to remedy health problems.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/23/2025
Excellent visit. Dr Leal listened to me and provided opinions for my ongoing care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/23/2025
Excellent experience
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/16/2025
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/29/2025
The doctor was very pleasant and easy to talk to, it was a delight to meet him
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/22/2025
Dr. Leal's explanations of condition and process was excellent and the young woman who set up the monitor did an excellent job of explaining and installing the monitor,
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
Enjoyed Dr Leal's kind spirit and comfortable manner. Felt good about his professional care and knowledge
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
Dr leal the best
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/7/2025
I feel that Dr. Leal is a very outstanding and understanding doctor. When you leave his office, you feel that he cared.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/6/2025
The level of care, including all of the personnel, has always been top notch.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/3/2025
Dr. Leal is very patient and explained the procedure in detail. I left knowing I made the right choice to have the procedure.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/22/2025
Dr. Leal is very good. He is attentive and explains things very well.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/17/2025
Dr Leal explained my options, taking time to make sure I understood the procedures in detail and the risks vs the benefits.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/12/2025
All professional who worked with me were very knowledgeable and productive.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/10/2025
I daughter and I liked Dr. Leal very, very much . He is quite warm and relational and does an exceptionally good job of explaining heart functions and covering pertinent matters to be considered for the patient's unique case. I am at peace about the action plan we agreed upon, and he told me twice that I would be contacted shortly by his staff to schedule the procedure. He inspired confidence in me and my daughter as well.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/8/2025
Dr. Leal is the best I have experienced while dealing with my health. Answered all my questions
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/5/2025
The Dr. Gave me parameters to look for since my heart rate is slow.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/31/2025
Very attentive and caring within a professional manner. Spent adequate time discussing possible treatment plan.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/31/2025
All of the Emory medical staff are polite, listen to me, and answer my questions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/30/2025
Dr. Leal excellent listening and a great partner for me to take care of my heart
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/24/2025
Dr. Leal is a great listener and provides the information I need to understand my medical condition. He allows me to be involved in the decisions for the next step in my treatment.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/15/2025
Dr. Leal is so friendly and calming, he removes all anxiety. Even if my medical issues are somewhat serious, I am certain that I am receiving the best medical care possible.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/18/2024
Dr Leal's care is exceptional and he always teaches me something valuable that helps me with my management of my atrial fibrillation. Emory is very fortunate to have him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/26/2024
Dr Leal is always great. Takes time to explain results of tests and treatment options
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/9/2024
I love dr Leal. I tell him he provides relief from anxiety. He explains well and answers all questions without rushing. He's the best.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/4/2024
Dr.Leal is very clear and repeats often. Uses understandable explanations. Seems to really care about the patient.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/3/2024
He explained everything exceptionally well
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/17/2024
I think the thing that I value most about Dr. Leal is his genuine concern and patience. His listens and takes my wishes into consideration.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/18/2024
Dr Leal provides relief from anxiety. He listens, explains things well and you can't believe how much I think of him.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/17/2024
Dr. Leal is very kind, knowledgeable & professional
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/31/2024
Dr. Leal had read all EPIC notes before I arrived, was ready to look at my Kardia data and told me exactly what had happened with an ER visi and invited me to share in decision making about next steps. I cannot express how grateful I am for his listening and expertise.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/25/2024
I love Dr Leal. He provides relief from anxiety.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/17/2024
She was the best person I have had to deal with at the cardiology imaging center. She was friendly, answered questions readily and was just fantastic!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/28/2024
Very good advice
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/14/2024
We love Dr Leal!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/13/2024
Left the physician with a very good idea what I need to do for my best interest. Also confident with my doctor and his ability to do his very best.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/13/2024
Dr.Leal took time to listen and explain everything. Excellent care!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/12/2024
I very happy with dr leil I will change my cardiology to him
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/31/2024
The care is great. Follow up disappointing
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/22/2024
Dr. Leal is exceptionally courteous, warm, thoughtful, caring, clear, and knowledgeable! He's my favorite of the 3 Emory cardiologists I had this far!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/22/2024
Dr L- was superb. In my opinion- a model Dr. In every respect
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/15/2024
Dr Liao is one of the best physicians I have at Emory. He always explains things patiently and clearly.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/11/2024
Dr. Leal is excellent. !!!!! Very attentive , kind, and smart
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/8/2024
Dr. Leal was extremely professional, kind, and knowledgeable. I was recommended to get a pace maker but I always like to get more information on risky procedures, especially with a critical, necessary organs first, before making decisions. I would appreciate getting more cardiologist recommended material to read about the benefits, risks, potential complications and post-surgery experience, if available?
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/5/2024
Good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/21/2024
All staff very kind
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/20/2024
Dr. Leal gives very through explanations in Avery kind way.
