Positive first year of operation for the Blood Pressure Clinic at the St. Joseph Community Health Centre in Dalhousie

Dalhousie, February 8, 2013 – Vitalité Health Network is marking the first year of operation of its Blood Pressure Clinic at the St. Joseph Community Health Centre in Dalhousie.

The clinic is mandated to deliver education and to promote health by targeting healthy blood pressure, preventing chronic hypertension, and preventing this disease from deteriorating. People seen at the clinic can be assessed and receive valuable information on the subject of blood pressure. They will also receive advice on ways to achieve a healthy lifestyle and diet, such as, for example, by reading food labels.  A personalized care plan is developed for each patient, with involvement by a range of health professionals.

According to Dina Haché, Facility Director of the St. Joseph Community Health Centre, the clinic is meeting a need in the region. “We have had over 400 visits since opening. Demand is constantly increasing and the patients' feedback is positive,” Ms. Haché stated. “The clinic’s services facilitate the delivery of hypertension care and encourage participation by both patients and their families. We are continually promoting healthy lifestyle habits and striving to minimize the complications of hypertension,” she continued.

People who do not have hypertension may also use the clinic's services. They can become more familiar with the details of their own blood pressure and learn tips to prevent hypertension.

Individuals wishing to be seen at the clinic can be referred by a physician or another health professional or can make their own appointment by calling the Collaborative Practice Office at the St. Joseph Community Health Centre, from Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (506-684-7727).