Auxiliary's new 24/7 BP monitors

Stawell Medical Centre patients can be observed much more accurately now with two new blood pressure monitors, funded through a $7500 donation from Stawell Hospital Auxiliary.

The monitors record blood pressure over a 24-hour period while patients go about their normal daily activities, helping clinicians make more informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment and supporting earlier intervention for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.

SMC Practice Manager Kelly Lee said the new equipment would enhance the centre's ability to identify and manage hypertension.

"These monitors provide a much more comprehensive picture of a patient's blood pressure than a single reading taken during an appointment, helping clinicians to make more informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment," Ms. Lee said.

"Earlier and more accurate identification of hypertension can play an important role in reducing the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

"Having access to this technology locally means our patients can receive specialised assessment and support closer to home, helping us deliver the right care at the right time."

Stawell Hospital Auxiliary President Judith Burke said the Auxiliary was pleased to support equipment that would make a meaningful difference for local patients.

"The Auxiliary was pleased to fund these monitors because they will help improve access to important health assessments for people in our community," Ms Burke said.

"We are incredibly grateful to the community for its ongoing support of the Auxiliary. Every donation, membership and fundraising contribution helps us continue investing in equipment and initiatives that benefit local healthcare services."

Grampians Health Chief People Officer Claire Woods thanked the Auxiliary for its ongoing support of local healthcare.

"The Stawell Hospital Auxiliary has been a valued partner in healthcare for nearly 100 years and this donation is another example of the positive impact community support can have on patient care," Ms Woods said.

"Partnerships like this help us invest in equipment that supports our clinicians and enhances the services available to people in our region.

"We sincerely thank the Auxiliary and its volunteers for their continued generosity and dedication to improving health outcomes for the Stawell community."