P59 Know Your Vascular Age: A Feasibility Study on a New Service in Community Pharmacies

Abstract

Background

Multiple studies report that stiffness of the elastic arteries has a predictive value independent of cardiovascular (CV) risk. According to the 2016 European Guideline on CV Disease Prevention in Clinical Practice by the European Society of Cardiology, arterial stiffness (AS) may predict future CV events and improve the classification of CV risk. (1–3).

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of incorporating AS assessment as a point-of-care test in community pharmacies, both as an independent parameter and integrated in a holistic service on CV risk assessment.

Methods

Eleven community pharmacies were selected to participate in the pilot project. Community pharmacists were trained to provide the service, and manuals were developed to assist them in the patient care process. Data were collected through GoogleForms®.

Results

Since March 2017, over 650 patients were incorporated in the service. 19.9% of participants displayed an increased Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV). Noteworthily, 12.3% of participants without previously known risk factors presented high PWV. 24 patients were referred to the GP. Several referrals to pharmacy services were made (n = 341). Based on feedback from pharmacies (on service pricing, service duration, and communication with patients and other healthcare professionals) modifications to the service were incorporated for the second phase of the study; in particular, the service price was adjusted, since only 33.3% of participants were willing to pay €15 for it.

Conclusions

Arterial stiffness is a useful and feasible parameter to be measured in community pharmacies. It allows for a holistic service, adding to other CV risk predictors already available.