Sidney Health Center is now offering a new way to monitor blood pressure that is more comfortable, more convenient, and more accurate for many patients.

Bert Lepel, PA-C, MPAS, with the Primary Care Clinic, recently began using the BioBeat 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor to help patients better understand and manage their blood pressure outside of the clinic setting.

Unlike traditional blood pressure monitors that use an arm cuff every 30 minutes throughout the day and night, the BioBeat device uses light-based sensor technology placed on the chest. The monitor takes readings every 15 minutes without squeezing the arm or interrupting sleep.

“This technology allows us to see a more complete picture of a patient’s blood pressure during normal daily activities and while they sleep,” said Lepel. “It can help identify issues that may not appear during a regular office visit.”

The BioBeat monitor can be especially helpful for patients with “white coat syndrome,” which occurs when blood pressure rises in a medical setting due to stress or anxiety. It can also help identify “masked hypertension,” when blood pressure appears normal during a clinic visit but is elevated at home.

Over a 24-hour period, the monitor collects up to 96 readings. This gives healthcare providers more detailed information to help diagnose conditions, evaluate treatment plans, and adjust medications when needed.

Patients report that the monitor is easy to wear and does not interfere with normal daily activities. Many patients say they hardly notice it while wearing it.

According to Lepel, the goal is simple: provide patients and providers with more accurate information so they can make better decisions about heart health and blood pressure management.

Patients interested in learning more about the BioBeat 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor are encouraged to speak with their Sidney Health Center primary care provider.