We have created a range of easy-to-use resources to help you understand the support available in healthcare settings. These resources
explain who can help, what to expect at appointments, and where to find extra support if you need it.
On this page, you will find information about:
- which healthcare professionals can help
These resources are designed to make healthcare easier to understand and less overwhelming, so you feel confident and supported when working with your healthcare team.
Download: all resources on this page are available to download in Word or PDF. We also provide Easy Read versions which may help support people with learning disabilities, autism, or cognitive disabilities but many people will find them useful.
- Patient information - Health care professionals that can help (PDF)
- Patient information - Health care professionals that can help (Microsoft Word)
- Easy read - getting ready to talk about your health (PDF)
- Easy read - help with appointments (PDF)
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Accessibility: this website is run by NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board. We want as many people as possible to be able to use this website. View the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership accessibility statement.
Which health care professionals can help
If you’ve been told you have high blood pressure, you’re not alone. There are lots of people who can help you. Health care professionals work together as a team to support you. Who you see will depend on:
- what your blood pressure is
- what treatment you’re having
- whether you have other health conditions
You might see your GP, nurse, pharmacist, or other staff such as a health and well being coach. Each person plays an important part in helping you stay healthy.
Your GP (doctor) or health care professional
Your health care professional is most likely the first person you’ll speak to about your blood pressure. They might see you at your local GP surgery or health centre. Some places also run special blood pressure clinics. Your GP can (if required):
- check and diagnose high blood pressure
- arrange tests to look for what is causing it and check for other problems like diabetes or kidney problems
- give you advice on healthy changes, like eating well or moving more
- prescribe medicines to help lower your blood pressure
- send you to the hospital or other specialists if needed
Practice nurses
Practice nurses work closely with GPs. They routinely support people living with high blood pressure. They can (if required):
- check your blood pressure
- talk to you about your general health
- help you make changes like quitting smoking, eating well, or getting more exercise
- support you if you’re having problems with your medicines
- sometimes they can also change your medicine dose or prescribe medicine
Pharmacists
Pharmacists do more than give out medicines. They know all about how medicines work and how to take them safely. They can help by:
- telling you how and when to take your medicine
- letting you know about side effects
- checking if it’s safe to take other medicines at the same time (like painkillers or herbal remedies)
- advise you on things like driving or drinking alcohol while taking medicine
Extra help from your Pharmacist:
Repeat prescriptions. If your blood pressure is controlled, you may not need to see your GP each time. A health care professional at your GP surgery can organise a repeat prescription. Some pharmacies can even deliver your medicine to your home.
Medicines use review. If you take more than one medicine, you can ask for a review. This is a time to talk about how you’re getting on with your medicines.
Healthy living support. Many pharmacies can help you to stop smoking and lose weight. They can also help you to cut down on alcohol and get more active. Some also do NHS health checks.
Support from the British Health Foundation (BHF)
The BHF have specialist cardiac nurses who can help you with any questions about blood pressure, heart health, or other related problems. You can:
- call the Heart Helpline (free): 0808 802 1234
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (closed on bank holidays) - email: hearthelpline
@bhf.org.uk - join their online group: HealthUnlocked – a free place online where you can chat to others with high blood pressure or heart conditions
You don’t have to manage high blood pressure on your own. There’s lots of help and support, just ask.