Some patients who meet the criteria for participating in an SMBP program may not be able to afford or have insurance coverage to purchase a device. An increasing number of state Medicaid plans cover SMBP devices, so check your state’s status in the SMBP Coverage Insights: Medicaid. An SMBP device loaner program provides an option for these patients, as well as for those who prefer not to purchase a device because they have yet to receive a hypertension diagnosis. Patients with an existing diagnosis of hypertension should be encouraged to purchase their own SMBP device.

Purchasing Devices

Purchase 2 to 3 devices for each clinician who will be using SMBP. Consider acquiring validated devices that include variable sized cuffs, keeping in mind that over half of US adults with hypertension need a large or extra-large BP cuff.

Recommended device features

Each device should have the following features:

• Clinically validated device tested for accuracy
• Automatic inflation functionality
• Upper arm cuff (unless the patient’s arm circumference is too large—in which case, use of a wrist device with proper technique is acceptable)
• Large screen for patients with poor eyesight
• Optional Bluetooth connectivity to allow patients to synchronize with other devices
• Date and time stamp for review of readings
• Memory to store at least 30 BP readings
• Ability to average 2 to 3 blood pressure readings taken over 10 minutes or less if possible

To get accurate readings, make sure to select the right cuff size.

Managing Devices

Various guides are available to help manage your devices, including storing and cleaning. Device Inventory & Management