Hypertension Case-Finding Services: NHS and Private Options
Get Your Blood Pressure Checked – NHS or Private Options at Pharmacy M!
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently high, often without symptoms. If left untreated, it increases the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
At Pharmacy M, we offer both NHS-funded and private blood pressure checks, making it easy and accessible to monitor your heart health. Whether you’re eligible for the free NHS hypertension case-finding service or prefer a flexible private screening, we’re here to help you know your numbers and take control of your health.
What Is a Blood Pressure Check / Hypertension Service?
A blood pressure check measures the pressure of blood in your arteries using a cuff and monitor. It’s a simple and quick test that identifies if you’re at risk of hypertension.
If your BP readings are elevated, you may be offered ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), which is a 24-hour blood pressure check and gives a more accurate picture of your blood pressure throughout the day.
Types of Hypertension Services Available
There are two main options:
NHS hypertension service
This is offered free of charge at NHS participating pharmacies
Private blood pressure check
This provides flexible and accessible screening for all individuals.
Both play a key role in high blood pressure screening.
Compare Your Options: NHS vs Private Blood Pressure Services
Explore your screening options below to find the service that fits your needs.
- NHS Blood Pressure Check
The NHS Hypertension Case-Finding Service is available through community pharmacy blood pressure services across England.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria
You may be eligible for a free NHS blood pressure check if you:
- Are aged 40 or over and do not have a current diagnosis of hypertension
- Are 35–39 years old and are either identified by the pharmacy team or request the service directly
Exclusion Criteria
- Anyone who has their blood pressure regularly monitored by a healthcare professional
- Private Blood Pressure Check
A Private Hypertension Screening is a flexible, on-demand service available at clinics and private pharmacies for those not eligible for the NHS criteria.
Eligibility
This private service is suitable for individuals who:
- Do not meet NHS criteria
When To Seek a BP Check?
You should get a blood pressure screening if you:
- Haven’t had a BP check in the last year
- Experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or vision issues
- Have been advised by a healthcare provider
Regular testing through the hypertension services can help you stay ahead of health risks.
Who Should Consider Regular Monitoring?
- Adults aged 40 or older
- Family history of hypertension
- Family history of cardiovascular conditions
- Individuals who are overweight, smoke, or live a sedentary lifestyle
- Individuals with diabetes or kidney disease
Side effects of High Blood Pressure
Early detection through blood pressure screening for hypertension can reduce your risk of serious health issues, including:
- Common Side Effects:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Kidney disease
Catching hypertension early makes it easier to manage with lifestyle changes or medication. Since many people don’t experience symptoms, regular screening is essential to detect high blood pressure before complications arise.
NHS ABPM
Private ABPM
Individuals who have a blood pressure check, with a blood pressure reading between 140/90 mmHg and 180/120 mmHg
- Individuals not meeting NHS eligibility criteria can opt for the Private paid service
- Private ABPM monitoring is available for £50
Benefits of ABPM (Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring)
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is a powerful diagnostic tool that measures your blood pressure at regular intervals over a 24-hour period. It provides a more accurate and complete picture of your blood pressure.
Greater Accuracy
- Detects accurate readings across your normal daily routine
- Helps identify white coat hypertension (high readings in clinic only) and masked hypertension (normal in clinic, high outside)
Day and Night Patterns
- Detects if your blood pressure follows a healthy pattern, with a natural dip at night
- Identifies nocturnal hypertension and non-dipping blood pressure, which are linked to higher cardiovascular risk
Tailored Treatment
- Tracks how well your medication controls blood pressure throughout the day and night
- Helps your doctor make more precise adjustments to the dose or timing
Early Detection of Health Risks
- Stroke risk
- Heart disease
- Kidney dysfunction
- Cognitive decline and vascular dementia
Non-Invasive treatment
- Small, wearable device comfortably wraps around your upper arm
- Automatically records readings
- No repeated clinic visits required
Why Choose Pharmacy M?
We offer professional and confidential care delivered in private consultation rooms providing you wth convenience, expertise and peace of mind.
FAQs
The hypertension case-finding service is a community-based program offered through NHS-participating pharmacies. It identifies people at risk of high blood pressure who may not have been diagnosed or screened recently.
Adults aged 40 or over who haven’t been diagnosed with hypertension and haven’t had a recent NHS BP check are eligible for this free service.
You can get a free NHS blood pressure check at participating pharmacies like Pharmacy M, which is enrolled in the NHS hypertension case-finding service.
You will have your blood pressure measured with a cuff and monitor. If your results are elevated, you may be offered a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and referred to your GP if needed.
ABPM involves wearing a monitor for 24 hours that checks your blood pressure at regular intervals throughout the day, providing more accurate readings of your BP during daily life activities and sleep.
Yes. Private blood pressure checks are open to all ages and don’t require a referral or eligibility criteria. You can book at your convenience.
No, only participating pharmacies, including Pharmacy M, that have opted into the NHS hypertension case-finding service offer this BP screening. You can visit or book an appointment with us.
Hypertension often has no symptoms. Early detection allows for timely lifestyle changes or treatment, helping prevent serious health issues like heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease.
NHS checks are free but limited to eligible adults. Private checks are paid but open to everyone, often with more flexibility and quicker appointments.
