The Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program is a four month program. Healthy Heart Ambassadors are available each week during the four months for one-on-one, 10-minute consultations to support participants as they continue to better manage their blood pressure. Program participants will attend at least two consultations a month, but they will be welcome any time a Healthy Heart Ambassador is on-duty. The certified HHA’s will train participants on the American Heart Association’s ABCDs of proper blood pressure measurement, and the program aims to assist patients in identifying trends and patterns in their readings over time that can be affected by lifestyle changes and to develop good self-monitoring habits and make lifestyle changes that will have a positive impact.

HHA’s will provide weekly ongoing support as they work to make blood pressure self-monitoring a habit for participants. Participants will agree to take their own blood pressure at least two times per month, and are encouraged to attend no cost, monthly, nutrition education seminars as a part of this four month program. To ensure participants feel supported throughout the program, they will receive weekly communications from a Healthy Heart Ambassador.

The program has four goals for participants:
1. Reduce Blood Pressure;
2. Better Manage Blood Pressure;
3. Recognize Triggers that Elevate Blood Pressure; and
4. Develop Healthy Eating and Monitoring Habits.

Seminars developed by a Registered Dietitian highlight how food is related to blood pressure management and provide patients with the knowledge and skills to make heart-healthy choices. Seminar topics include reducing sodium intake and heart healthy eating. Each 60-minute nutritional seminar also offers participants an opportunity for them to take their blood pressure with coaching on proper technique from an on-site, trained, Healthy Heart Ambassador.

Our YMCA has three trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors.

Participants in the program receive a blood pressure monitor at no cost. Call 724.438.2584 and ask for Pam to see if you qualify.