NHS Hypertension case-finding service

Service Description

Our pharmacy delivers the NHS Hypertension Case-Finding Service to support early detection and management of high blood pressure within the local community. The service aims to identify individuals aged 40 years and over who may have undiagnosed hypertension, helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease through timely referral and lifestyle intervention. Patients are identified opportunistically during routine visits or through targeted outreach. Eligible individuals are offered a free, convenient blood pressure check in a private consultation area, conducted by trained pharmacy staff using validated equipment. For those with elevated readings, the service provides a structured pathway: Clinic blood pressure measurement (CBPM): An initial reading taken in pharmacy. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM): Offered where CBPM results are raised, allowing for accurate 24-hour monitoring. Referral and follow-up: Results are shared securely with the patient’s GP for further assessment or diagnosis where required. Throughout the service, patients receive tailored advice on lifestyle changes—covering diet, weight management, and physical activity—to help maintain or improve cardiovascular health. The pharmacy team ensures all data is recorded in accordance with NHS service specifications and that patient confidentiality is upheld at every stage. Regular training and quality assurance processes maintain high standards of clinical accuracy and patient care. Since implementation, the service has contributed to early identification of individuals with raised blood pressure who were previously unaware of their risk, facilitating timely medical review and supporting the NHS’s wider prevention agenda. By integrating accessibility, professional expertise, and community engagement, our pharmacy plays a key role in improving public health outcomes and reducing the burden of hypertension-related disease.