Agassiz health centre gets new specialized blood pressure machine

AGASSIZ — Patients who suffer from poor blood flow in their limbs may get better care at the Agassiz Community Health Centre thanks to a new donation from the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation.

The FVHCF has provided the Centre with a new Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) machine, a specialized medical tool that measures blood pressure in a patient’s arms and legs.

The ABI machine helps diagnose peripheral arterial disease, in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to a person’s limbs and can cause painful cramping during activity.

“Much appreciation to the Foundation and partners for extending the support into the community!” said Tabitha McLaughlin, clinical operations director for the health centre.

“The equipment supports so many needs and the integration between our primary care team and home health team for patients in the Agassiz-Harrison area!”

The Foundation supports the purchase of healthcare and lifesaving equipment across the Fraser Health region, including Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Agassiz.