Med Center Health’s Dental Clinic has partnered with the American Heart Association (AHA) to tackle the issue of high blood pressure in Kentucky. The new initiative, “Embracing Community Care,” aims to increase access to blood pressure screenings and is funded by the Delta Dental of Kentucky Foundation.
The program seeks to equip dental clinics with essential tools, including tabletop blood pressure monitors and cuffs, enabling dental professionals to screen adult patients for hypertension and connect them with necessary medical care.
Brad Drew, philanthropy and communications manager for Delta Dental of Kentucky, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “The mission of the American Heart Association and the efforts at Med Center Health’s Dental Clinic reflect our shared commitment to improving lives and fostering a healthier future for all Kentuckians. At Delta Dental, we are proud to support the ‘Embracing Community Care’ initiative. Together, we can ensure every Kentuckian enjoys a healthy and vibrant smile.”
The AHA aims to train dental providers to identify and monitor hypertension, recognizing that many individuals visit dental clinics regularly, providing a unique opportunity for early detection. In addition, participating dental offices will distribute educational materials on the importance of routine blood pressure monitoring and communicating with primary care providers.
Hypertension remains a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes, both of which require urgent medical attention, according to health experts. The collaboration between the AHA and Med Center Health’s Dental Clinic is a proactive step toward addressing this critical health issue.
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