An apparatus for generating ECG recordings and a method for using the same are disclosed. The apparatus includes a handheld device and a controller. The handheld device has first, second, third, and fourth electrodes on an outer surface of the handheld device. The controller records signals from the first, second, third, and fourth electrodes and generates an ECG recording from the signals. The controller also provides placement information regarding locations on a user's body that are to be brought into contact with the first, second, third, and fourth electrodes while the controller records the signals. The handheld device can include a cellular telephone or a PDA. The controller stores an exemplary normal ECG recording, and compares a newly generated ECG recording with the stored ECG recording and generates an indication that indicates whether the newly generated ECG recording is consistent with the stored ECG recording.