A new heart health project has started in GP surgeries in the Tame Valley area. The project is supported by NW Hearts Charity.
The project is for people who already have heart disease. Some of these people have not been getting regular health checks or blood tests. This means they may miss important care that helps keep them well.
Why this project is important
People with heart disease need their cholesterol checked regularly. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Some people miss appointments or stop getting reminders from their GP. Over time, they may no longer be invited for check-ups, even though they still need care. This project is about finding those people and helping them get the care they need.
What the project will do
Doctors and nurses at eight GP surgeries will use NHS records to find around 400 people who have heart disease but have not had a cholesterol test in the last year.
Specially trained staff will then contact these patients and offer:
- cholesterol blood tests
- health reviews
- follow-up care if needed
Support will be offered in ways that suit each person, including:
- flexible appointment times
- information in different languages or easy-read formats
- extra help for people with disabilities or communication needs
The project will also make better use of an NHS tool that records how patients need care to be provided, so they are not left out in the future.
Supported by NW Hearts Charity
NW Hearts Charity is funding this project to help improve heart health and reduce unfair differences in care across the North West. James White, Chief Executive of NW Hearts Charity, said:
“People with heart disease are already at higher risk. It is worrying when they miss out on care. This project is about making sure they get the checks and support they need to stay healthy.”
Dr Monica Saksena Joye is an NHS doctor who helps lead this work. She said:
“I am excited about this project – it gives us dedicated resource to focus on a group who are harder to reach through standard systems, particularly around cholesterol and cardiovascular health. I hope this work demonstrates improvement in a group who likely have the most to be gained by having their condition monitored and optimised. We have a real opportunity to make meaningful changes by recording reasonable adjustments for some of our most vulnerable patients.”
Looking ahead
The project started in January 2026. Staff will track how many people are contacted and how many receive care. What is learned will be shared with other areas, so more people can benefit in the future.