Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) is a small unit that includes a cuff worn on your arm that takes your blood pressure and records changes or fluctuations over a period of time (usually 24 hours). It is usually ordered for the evaluation of hypertension or hypotension and for the evaluation of blood pressure medication.

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What to Bring

• A list of your current prescription medications, vitamins and supplements.
• We recommend you wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your upper arms.

Other Notes

• If you do not speak or understand English, please ensure you can bring someone to your appointment that can communicate and understand English, and that they can stay for the full duration of your appointment.
• ABPM is not covered by OHIP. The out-of-pocket cost is $85 for one day 170$ for two days.

Arrival Time

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to check-in.
• If you late cancel or no show for your appointment, you may be charged a cancellation fee.

During the Test

• At your appointment, a blood pressure monitor cuff will be placed around your arm and a small recording device will be placed around your waist. The monitor can also be fitted crossbody or around the neck like a necklace.

After the Test

• You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
• You can continue to be physically active with the monitor attached, including for workouts.
• You cannot shower or bathe while the monitor is attached to you.
• Keep the monitor in place for the duration of time specified by the technologist.

Returning the monitor

• Please return the monitor to the clinic where you had your appointment.
• The monitor must be returned at the time specified by the technologist.
  • It may be possible to return the monitor earlier or later than the time specified by the technologist, but that must first be confirmed with KMH staff.
• Most of our clinics are open Monday to Friday, but some are also open on Saturday.
• If the return date falls on a weekend or holiday, you can return the monitor on the next business day when our clinic is open.
• Late monitor returns are subject to a $50 late fee per day.

Contact Details

• The direct line to contact the ABPM team is 905-855-5280 during regular business hours Monday to Fridays from 8am-6pm, and Saturdays from 9am-5pm.
• You can also reach us at 1-877-564-5227, extension 2. Our call centre is open Monday to Fridays from 8am-6pm, and Saturdays from 9am-5pm. If you have a next-day or same-day appointment, you can reach us outside of our call centre hours, by pressing extension 7.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I access my medical images and reports through PocketHealth?

• Yes, you can access your medical images through PocketHealth. However, written reports are currently not available through the platform. If you would like a copy of your report, please reach out to the referring doctor.

How do I get to the clinic?

• For directions to the clinic and the nearest major intersection, please see Locations & Directions.

Can I proceed with the appointment if I am on oxygen?

• We’ll need to understand why you’re on oxygen to determine if we can proceed. Depending on the underlying condition, we may not be able to proceed with the appointment.

Is it okay to wear body lotion or perfume for my appointment?

• Please do not wear any scented products to the appointment.

What if I've misplaced my health card?

• You can still attend your appointment if you bring a printed copy, photocopy, or photo of your health card.

Will there be any out-of-pocket costs?

• ABPM is not covered by OHIP. The out-of-pocket cost is $85 for one day 170$ for two days.

Do you have wifi at the clinics?

• Yes, we have wifi available.

Where can I provide feedback or file a complaint?

• You can provide feedback or file a complaint via email at [e-mail] or by visiting our website here.

Can you provide a doctor's note that can send to my employer?

• Yes, we can provide work letters on the day of your appointment. Please ask the reception team.

What is the purpose of this test?

• An ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) is usually ordered for the evaluation of hypertension or hypotension, or for the evaluation of blood pressure medication.

Can I return the monitor to a different KMH location?

• The monitor must be returned to the same clinic of your original visit.

Can I work out or exercise while wearing the Holter monitor?

• Yes, you can work out or exercise while wearing the monitor.

Can I shower or bathe while wearing the monitor?

• No, you cannot shower or bathe while the monitor is attached to you.

Do I need to turn the monitor off before returning it?

• No, you do not need to turn the monitor off before returning it.