UK pharmacy blood pressure check service updates take effect

New restrictions to the Hypertension Case-Finding Service (HCFS) in the UK pharmacy sector have come into effect. The updated specification limits GP signposting for adults aged 40 and over who do not have a hypertension diagnosis and have not had a blood pressure check within the last five years.

Furthermore, the changes clarify that patients already receiving treatment for high blood pressure are excluded from clinic blood pressure checks, and eligible patients are restricted to one check every five years.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has criticized the update as a ‘retrograde step’ that could hinder efforts to reduce heart disease and stroke by leaving individuals unaware of their cardiovascular risks. The NPA has requested that the NHS conduct a full impact assessment regarding these changes.

In response to the implementation, Community Pharmacy England (CPE) has released various resources, including posters, infographics, and briefing documents, to assist pharmacies in raising patient awareness and managing GP communications.