Arranging a GP appointment solely to have your blood pressure checked can seem like a hassle. However, you’ll at least be pleased to learn that certain pharmacies across England offer free blood pressure checks to eligible people.
According to the NHS, this service is designed for people aged over 40 living in England who are unaware they have high blood pressure. If you already know you have elevated blood pressure or have had it checked within the last six months, you won’t qualify for this service.
Similar to conventional blood pressure checks, these appointments usually involve a pharmacist or healthcare assistant fitting a cuff around your upper arm to take a reading. Depending on the results, you may be advised to see your GP, given recommendations on adopting a healthier lifestyle, or provided with a home monitoring device before returning for a follow-up appointment.
Official NHS advice explains: “If you’re registered with a GP surgery, your blood pressure reading will be added to your GP health record. It will not be shared with anyone unless your blood pressure is very high or very low and you need urgent medical help.”
Although common, high blood pressure presents serious risks, including heart attacks and strokes, if left untreated. Various factors can affect it, including age, ethnicity, and diet—especially if you’re consuming too much salt.
While high blood pressure can cause headaches, blurred vision and chest pain, there are often no symptoms at all. That’s why having your blood pressure checked remains the only reliable way to identify the condition.
If you believe you’re eligible for a complimentary blood pressure check through the scheme, visit the NHS website to locate your nearest participating pharmacy. Simply use the search function to enter your town, city or postcode in England.
Anyone concerned about their blood pressure or related symptoms can also seek advice from their GP or telephone 111 for further guidance.
What constitutes a ‘high’ blood pressure reading?
Blood pressure measurements consist of two figures, with the first typically being higher than the second. According to the Mirror, the NHS states that if you’re under 80, a reading is generally considered high if it is:
- 140/90 or higher when checked by a healthcare professional
- 135/85 or higher when checked at home
For anyone aged 80 and older, a blood pressure reading is typically regarded as high if it falls below the specified threshold: