BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING AND REFERRAL FOR ADULTS AT A COMMUNITY CLINIC

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major public health concern and may remain undetected because affected adults often have no obvious symptoms. Community clinics provide an opportunity to identify adults with elevated blood pressure and connect them with appropriate follow-up care. This project aimed to implement and evaluate a standardized blood pressure screening, education, and referral process for adults attending a community clinic.

Materials and Methods: A four-week screening and referral project was implemented among adults aged 18 years and older attending a community clinic. Trained staff and volunteers used a validated blood pressure device, standardized measurement procedures, a screening form, patient education materials, and a referral pathway. Adults with high readings received education and referral instructions. Project outcomes included the number screened, blood pressure categories, referrals provided, and acceptance of referral support.

Results: A total of 56 adults were screened, exceeding the target of 50 participants. Twenty-two (39.3%) had blood pressure readings requiring follow-up: 14 had Stage 1-range readings, six had Stage 2-range readings, and two had very high readings requiring same-day provider review. All 22 participants received referral instructions, and 18 (81.8%) accepted direct referral support. No participant reported emergency warning symptoms during screening.

Conclusion: A standardized blood pressure screening and referral process was feasible within the community clinic setting and successfully identified adults requiring further evaluation. Integrating accurate measurement, brief patient education, and clearly defined referral pathways into routine clinic workflows may strengthen early identification of elevated blood pressure and support preventive care. Continued screening and evaluation of referral completion are recommended.