NHS Blood Pressure Check Service – Oxford
Free Blood Pressure Checks at Wheatley Pharmacy
At Wheatley Pharmacy in Oxford, you can access a free NHS Blood Pressure Check - no GP appointment needed. Our trained pharmacy team will check your blood pressure in a private consultation room, offering friendly, expert care right in your local community.
Get your blood pressure checked at Wheatley Pharmacy
High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms, but it significantly increases your risk of serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes. Early detection is vital for managing your health.
Our pharmacy now offers a convenient and free NHS service where you can get your blood pressure checked quickly and easily, without needing a GP appointment.
Our trained pharmacy staff will conduct the check in a private consultation room. If needed, we can also provide a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) for a more detailed assessment.
This service aims to identify undiagnosed hypertension and help more people take control of their heart health, working closely with your GP practice
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NHS Blood Pressure Check Eligibility
You are eligible for this FREE NHS service if you are:
An adult aged 40 years or older who does not have a current diagnosis of high blood pressure (hypertension).
By exception, an adult under 40 who requests the service due to a recognised family history of hypertension, at the discretion of our pharmacy staff.
An adult between 35 and 39 years old who is approached about or requests the service, at the discretion of our pharmacy staff.
An adult of any age, with or without a prior diagnosis of hypertension, specifically referred by your GP practice for a blood pressure measurement (clinic or ABPM).
The Process
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1. Book Your Appointment
Use our online booking system below to choose a time that suits you for a confidential blood pressure check at our pharmacy.
2. Blood Pressure Measurement
We will take your blood pressure measurements following national guidelines.
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3. Discuss Results & Next Steps:
Based on your clinic reading, we will advise what to do next.
What happens after my appointment?
Depending on your blood pressure reading, we will advise one of the following next steps:
Low Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is unusually low, we’ll give appropriate advice and may also suggest you see your GP if there are any concerning symptoms
Normal Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is in the normal range, great! We’ll provide some healthy lifestyle tips to help keep it that way, and we’ll remind you when to next get it checked (usually in 5 years, or sooner if you have certain risks).
High Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is raised (high), we will typically offer you a portable blood pressure monitor to wear for 24 hours (see “Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring” below for details). This gives a detailed report of your blood pressure throughout the day. We’ll also encourage healthy habits and answer any questions.
Very High Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is very high (above a critical threshold), don’t worry – we’ll ensure you get prompt care. The pharmacist will advise you to see your GP urgently (within 24 hours) and we will directly inform your GP practice of the reading right away.
READY FOR YOUR FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECK?
Book an Appointment
Book a Blood Pressure Check
10 minute appointment​
The Blood Pressure Check: What to Expect
During a blood pressure check, a professional will place an inflatable cuff around your upper arm. The cuff inflates for a moment to briefly restrict blood flow, and then slowly deflates. As it deflates, a monitor records your blood pressure. The process is quick, painless, and only takes a few minutes.​​
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Why is a Blood Pressure Check so Important?
Getting your blood pressure checked is crucial for your health. High blood pressure, often called the "silent killer," typically has no symptoms, so you may not even know you have it. If left untreated, it can significantly increase your risk of severe health issues like a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. Regular checks are the best way to monitor your health and help you and your doctor make the best decisions about your well-being.
Book an APBM Check
20-minute appointment
What is ABPM?
ABPM stands for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring. It's a small device that you wear for 24 hours, which automatically measures your blood pressure throughout the day and night, providing a more accurate picture.
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If your initial blood pressure readings are high, we may offer you one of these 24-hour ABPM devices. We'll fit the device and explain exactly how it works. You'll then return to the pharmacy for us to review the results. ​​
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After the clinic check or ABPM, we will explain the findings to you and send the results to your GP. If the results suggest you might have hypertension, your GP will follow up to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment. If everything is fine, you’ll simply continue with your normal health checks. Either way, you’ll have peace of mind and clear guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this service really free?
Yes, the NHS Community Pharmacy Hypertension Case-Finding Advanced Service is entirely free for eligible patients, funded by the NHS.
2. Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, you don't need a referral to get an opportunistic blood pressure check if you're 40 or over and haven't been diagnosed with hypertension. However, GPs can also refer patients to us for checks.
3. How long does the appointment take?
A standard clinic blood pressure check is usually quick, typically taking around 10-15 minutes for the consultation and measurement. If an ABPM is fitted, that will take a little longer.
4. What if my blood pressure is high?
If your blood pressure is high, we will discuss the results with you and, if necessary, offer a 24-hour ABPM. All results are sent to your GP, and urgent results are communicated immediately for follow-up.
5. What is an ABPM?
ABPM stands for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring. It's a small device that you wear for 24 hours, which automatically takes your blood pressure at regular intervals. This helps get a more accurate average reading of your blood pressure throughout the day and night.
6. Will my GP know about my results?
Yes, with your consent, all your blood pressure readings and results from the service will be securely shared with your registered GP practice to ensure your medical records are up-to-date and for continuity of care.
7. What should I bring to my appointment?
Just yourself! You don't need to bring anything specific. Our staff will guide you through the process.
What Our Clients Say
Excellent service. Took time to explain everything and provide additional information for self care. Really pleased with the service. Thank you.
Candy Woodington
This is an exceptional pharmacy. They treat every customer with the same degree of care and respect. Staff are patient, friendly and professional
Elizabeth Cooper
The team in Wheatley Pharmacy is very helpful and Pharmacists are very knowledgeable. Very grateful for the service they provide.
Jasjit Singh
PREMIER PHARMACY OXFORD
About Wheatley Pharmacy
Where are we located?
As Oxford’s premier Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we are conveniently located just minutes away from the A40 for ease of access. With one of the largest patient bases in Oxford, we are committed to delivering top-notch healthcare services and travel vaccinations. Our centre takes pride in offering ample on-site parking for 36 cars, inclusive of dedicated spaces for individuals with disabilities. Contact us today.
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
Saturday
​Sunday
8:30 am – 6:30 pm
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Closed
Address
Wheatley Pharmacy, Morland Close, Wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1DP
