Introduction

Black (Asian, African-Caribbean and African) Community Organisations came together to identify undiagnosed Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and Hypertension (HTN) in Black communities where health inequalities and limited engagement with services were key factors.

Core Aims

• The identification of undiagnosed AF which would enable participants to successfully engage with treatments.
• To capture information and insight about how to better engage with Black Communities and to understand barriers to accessing services.
• To provide a more informed route for general health advice and help measure longer term health benefits.

Organisations Involved

• Bak Up CIC
• United African Association
• Northampton Bangladeshi Association
• Power of the Mind
• Sikh Community Centre and Youth Club (SCCYC)
• Northampton Life Chapel
• Amalgamation
• Shine CIC
• Asha-Deep

The purpose of this project identified the need for opportunistic screening. Initially it was suggested that this should be using the approved NICE innovation ‘KardiaMobile’ – (for detecting atrial fibrillation) and blood pressure monitors. This was going to enable direct AF and HTN testing to the community alongside a range of health promotion support. It was intended that where ‘KardiaMobile’ indicated a potential abnormality patients will be reviewed by an AF nurse to confirm results and refer patients to General Practice for confirmation of diagnosis where required and then standard medical treatment would be given, alongside social prescribing, addressing issues such as medication adherence, exercise, smoking, alcohol use and dietary factors (NICE, 2018).  It was intended that then the AF nurse would then follow the participants up, to ensure they are successfully engaged with their GP practice.

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