Blood pressure checks available at some dentists and opticians

NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB has launched a trial scheme where some dentists and opticians are offering free blood pressure checks to patients aged 40 and over during routine appointments. It is hoped that these checks will find people with hidden high blood pressure – so called because high blood pressure usually has no symptoms.

Specsavers Hemel Hempstead blood pressure

Selina Holmes is an Optometrist at Specsavers Hemel Hempstead, shared her positive experience of the scheme: “Specsavers Hemel Hempstead were delighted to make blood pressure checks more accessible for our patients, many of whom lead busy lives and may not prioritise routine GP visits. Offering this service in an opticians allows people to check an important aspect of their health in a setting they already visit, making preventative care more convenient.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with patients appreciating both the ease of access and the opportunity to learn more about the link between blood pressure and eye health. Many were unaware that high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious ocular conditions like hypertensive retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion, as well as more general health issues like heart disease. By detecting these risks early, we can guide patients towards seeking further medical advice before problems develop.”

Dentists and opticians taking part in the trial have been equipped with digital blood pressure monitors and staff have undergone training to ensure accurate readings and provide lifestyle advice based on the results.

Since the scheme began, more than 550 blood pressure checks have been conducted in opticians and dental practices, with around 100 people referred for further medical help due to high readings.

Dentists offering free blood pressure checks

  • Broadwater Dental Practice, 302 Broadwater Crescent, Stevenage SG2 8EU
  • Bedwell Dental Surgery, 62 Bedwell Crescent, Stevenage, SG1 1LX
  • The Dental Tree, 5 Exeter Close, Stevenage, SG1 4PN
  • Alexandra Dental Practice, 98 Alexandra Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 4AG
  • Market Street Dental Practice, 8 Market Street, Watford, WD18 0PD
  • Blue Cross Dental Care, 10 The Parade, High Street, Watford, WD17 1AA
  • Bupa Dental Care, 97 St Albans Road,  Watford,  WD17 1SJ
  • Hemel Smiles Studio, 69 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead,  HP1 1LE
  • Community Dental Services CIC, Addison House, Hamsted Road, Harlow, CM20 1EP

Opticians offering free blood pressure checks

  • Specsavers Hatfield, 80 Town Centre, Hatfield, AL10 0JW
  • Hemel Opticians, 143 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1BB
  • Specsavers Hemel Hempstead, 252-254 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1BJ
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