In an innovative approach to preventative health care, dentists and opticians in Skegness, Lincolnshire are now offering free blood pressure checks.
This initiative is part of an NHS pilot scheme aiming to catch hypertension early by introducing health checks in “non-traditional” settings like dental and eye appointments.
Running in eight practices including Skegness, Boston, Lincoln, Grantham, Gainsborough, this program targets individuals aged 40 and above, or those at risk of high blood pressure.
By breaking down accessibility barriers, the NHS hopes to help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and dementia.
Medical Director Dr Sunil Hindocha said he hoped it would remove barriers and increase “access to essential preventative health services for those who need it most”.
The primary purpose of this pilot scheme is to enhance early detection of hypertension. By integrating blood pressure checks into dental and eye appointments, the NHS seeks to remove common barriers to healthcare services.
Free Blood Pressure Checks In Skegness Will Save Lives
The goals are ambitious yet clear: prevent an estimated 150,000 heart attacks, strokes, and dementia cases by the year 2028/29. Targeting individuals aged 40 and above, or those at risk, this service ensures that vital preventative measures reach those in need.
Dr Hindocha said the scheme “aims to bridge gaps in accessibility, particularly for individuals living in rural areas or within harder-to-reach populations”.
“Our hope is that this innovative approach will lead to earlier detection, improved management, and, ultimately, a healthier Lincolnshire,” he said.
Importance of Early Detection of Hypertension
Health Risks Associated with Hypertension
Hypertension, often dubbed the “silent killer,” can lead to severe health complications if left unchecked. The risks include heart attacks, strokes, and even dementia. Early detection is critical as it opens the door to effective management and reduces the likelihood of these life-threatening conditions.
Benefits of Non-Traditional Healthcare Settings
Offering blood pressure checks in non-traditional settings like dental and eye care practices brings healthcare closer to where people already go for regular check-ups. This integration enhances convenience and increases the likelihood that individuals will engage in preventive health measures without needing an additional appointment with their general practitioner.
Daniel Till, general manager at Specsavers in Skegness and Louth, said: “Since launching the service, we have already seen several people who came into the practice with high blood pressure, and working with other services such as NHS 111 and the urgent treatment centre, we were able to get them the right support.”
