Preventing Heart Failure and Stroke: The Importance of Blood Pressure Monitoring

Hypertension (HTN), or high blood pressure, can lead to serious health complications if not properly managed. Over time, the extra strain on blood vessels and organs from high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. The heart must work harder to pump blood, which can eventually cause the walls of the heart to thicken—a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy. This thickening can impair the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, eventually leading to heart failure.

Hypertension also poses risks to other organs, such as the kidneys, eyes, and brain. Chronic high blood pressure can cause kidney damage, vision loss, and even cognitive issues like memory loss and dementia. Therefore, effective blood pressure management is essential to prevent these outcomes and maintain overall health. Regular monitoring is critical for patients with hypertension to help prevent severe complications and improve quality of life.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a portable device that records blood pressure over a 24-hour period. Doctors may order ABPM to detect high blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension). It is also useful for assessing patients with "white coat syndrome," where blood pressure readings are higher in a medical setting than at home. Additionally, ABPM helps evaluate the effectiveness of blood pressure medications.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Fee

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is not covered by OHIP. Considering the current global economic situation, Advanced Cardio Diagnostics has set the lowest fee for ABPM services in GTA, ensuring that all patients have equal access to medical evaluation.

The fee for ABPM is $50 (fifty dollars), payable by cash only.

Special Instructions

• There are no dietary restrictions before the test, except for coffee consumption.

• Patients should continue taking prescribed medications before and after the test, unless otherwise instructed by their doctor.

ABPM involves a delicate and expensive medical device. You will be asked to sign a responsibility form to ensure the device is returned on time and in good condition.

During the Test

The monitor consists of two parts: an arm cuff and a recording device connected by a rubber tube. The technician will program the monitor and take an initial reading to verify the settings. The device will be placed in a pouch, which you will wear around your waist or shoulder strap. You will be asked to keep a diary of any symptoms, vigorous activity, stressful events, and the schedule/dosage of your blood pressure medication.

The arm cuff will inflate every 30 minutes until 10:00 p.m., and every hour thereafter until 7:00 a.m. During the daytime, when the cuff inflates, you must stop any physical activity to ensure accurate blood pressure readings.

At the end of the 24-hour monitoring period, the patient must turn off the monitor (by removing the battery). The device should be returned by the specified return date.

After the Test

You can resume your normal daily activities immediately.

Test Results Interpretation and Follow-Up:

Please note that the technologists performing your test or the staff will not be able to discuss the results with you. All test results will be interpreted by a cardiologist and sent to the referring physician. You can then discuss the results and any further steps with your physician.

If your test was ordered by the cardiologist you have seen for consultation at our clinic, the consulting cardiologist will review the results and will communicate with our administrative team regarding the next steps.

Important Information for Your Appointment

Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled test to register at the reception desk.

Bring the following items:

• Your valid OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card (to each scheduled appointment). 

• A requisition form, if provided to you directly by your physician or nurse practitioner.
  (Note: If your physician or nurse practitioner did not fax the referral to our office, you must bring the requisition form signed by your physician to your appointment.)