Did you know that you can now have your blood pressure checked for free in a community pharmacy?
We want to prevent 140 heart attacks and 200 strokes across South East London each year by increasing the diagnosis and management of high blood pressure by providing an easy-to-access blood pressure service in community pharmacies
Why do I need my blood pressure checked?
If you have high blood pressure, also called hypertension, it can be controlled to reduce your risk of a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular disease.
In the UK, one in every nine adults have high blood pressure without even knowing it, since high blood pressure itself rarely causes symptoms.
The British Heart Foundation estimates that high blood pressure causes over 50% of heart attacks and stroke. Heart attacks and strokes can cause death and disability and in some cases can be prevented.
How can I get my blood pressure checked?
In addition to your GP surgery, certain pharmacies in South East London offer free NHS blood pressure checks. Having your blood pressure checked at a pharmacy is quick and easy and often does not require an appointment. The number of pharmacies providing NHS blood pressure checks is increasing all the time. Ask your pharmacist today if they are providing this service.
What does a blood pressure check at the pharmacy involve?
A blood pressure check usually takes around 10-15 minutes in the pharmacy consultation room with the community pharmacist. Following this, you may be invited to take home a blood pressure monitor that measures your blood pressure as you go about your daily life.
Depending on your blood pressure reading, you may be reassured that you have a normal blood pressure or be referred to your GP for appropriate management. The pharmacist will explain any next steps if necessary.
Who can access the service?
The service is available to anyone aged over the age of 40 with or without a confirmed diagnosis of high blood pressure. Your pharmacist may also consider people under the age of 40 if they think it is needed. Your GP may also direct you to the pharmacy for routine blood pressure monitoring or diagnosis of high blood pressure. Ask at your local pharmacy how to access the service.
The following list provides details of the some of the pharmacies in your local area who are already providing this service: Drop into your pharmacy today to see if they are providing the service and find out how you can get your blood pressure checked.
Community pharmacies currently providing this service are listed below*
*Data from October 2022
Additionally please see the link to the interactive map, which highlights the GP surgeries in South East London and the location of the Community Pharmacies who are actively providing the Blood Pressure Check Service.