How often do you “Think BP”?
Did you know that in the UK alone, according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), there are an estimated 7 million people with undiagnosed high Blood Pressure who don’t know they are at risk. Over 24% of people in England are estimated to have high Blood Pressure. At least half of all heart attacks and strokes are associated with high BP and it is a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease, heart failure and cognitive decline.
If these are the challenges facing Primary and Secondary Care the question is what can GP Practices, Hospitals and Clinical Commissioning Groups do to diagnose more patients with high blood pressure?
Can we do BP better and “Think BP”?
The BHF Guidance recommends key areas and stresses that clinicians should “Think BP” at every opportunity. I have separated their recommendations into a couple of key areas below where I think existing technology available from PMS Instruments could help.
Think BP in the Waiting Room— Consider giving patients access to a self-test blood pressure station in GP waiting rooms and Hospital Outpatient clinics. Professional, clinically validated monitors like the A&D Medical TM-2657P are designed for high volume use have been popular with GPs for many years and are now being used in Hospitals. They save both time and money in the long run and especially in a Hospital setting like a Renal Unit free up members of staff for other clinical duties.
Think BP during a consultation-Think BP and increase opportunistic screening in your GP Practice or Hospital. Make blood pressure testing routine for all patients attending clinics such as Renal, Sexual Health, Asthma, COPD, Diabetes, weight management, smoking cessation and other clinics. Patients can record their blood pressure in the GP or Hospital waiting room before they attend the clinic. The printed results can then be handed to the clinician during consultation saving time and staff resources.
For a trial, demonstration or to find out more about the TM-2657P call us today on 01628 773233.
