The Metro Atlanta American Heart Association (AHA) is partnering with Fulton County Libraries for a project to help Georgia residents combat high blood pressure issues. Libraries with Heart is an initiative that places blood pressure kits in Fulton County libraries for locals to rent for free. The kits contain devices that read blood pressure, material that tells what your numbers mean, and a list of health care providers near the area of the library branch. The two organizations are collaborating to meet people where they are so that more Georgia residents know their status regarding high blood pressure.
“Many people may have high blood pressure and do not know. Having the ability to access these devices where you can check them out or go to the library to check your blood pressure every day will allow us to increase the number of people who know their numbers so that they are not walking around with undiagnosed hypertension,” said Shauna Scott, Vice President of Community Impact for Metro Atlanta American Heart Association.
The Libraries with Heart Initiative launches on Monday, May 20. Seventeen libraries across Fulton County will have blood pressure kits for guests to check out. Blood pressure stations to check your numbers at your local branch will also be available. High Blood pressure is a health obstacle that many Georgia citizens face today. According to the American Heart Association, about 75 million adults suffer from high blood pressure nationwide, and about 13 million don’t know that they have it.
Access to blood pressure machines and health care providers are barriers that several people face. Lack of transportation, inadequate health insurance, or needing the financial means are common access challenges. A peculiar obstacle Georgia locals face is medical provider desserts. Scott explains that Georgia needs more medical providers. Specific communities need more doctors and staff to serve residents. This creates more healthcare barriers. The American Heart Association researched to find the high-risk areas in Fulton County. College Park, South Fulton, Fairburn, and Hapeville are among the high-risk areas on that list.
“The American Heart Association already did research on areas that are higher risk. We purposely looked for libraries that fit within the range to start this project,” said Teryn Gilliam, Branch Group Administrator and Adult and Volunteer Services Coordinator for the Fulton County Library System.
“We always try to provide the services that our communities need. Libraries with Heart coincide with our strategic plan that involves literacy with action. I believe this service will impact many people and potentially save lives,” said Gilliam.
Libraries were the best place to do this initiative because they are central to all communities and accessible to members within communities. Scott shares that libraries are safe, convenient spaces for people. They were the most accessible place to get information to locals, and it was part of the American Heart Association’s strategy to reach people where they live, work, and play.
The number of times kits are checked out, and blood pressure stations are used will determine whether the initiative is successful for both organizations. AHA has estimated that libraries with hearts will reach 56,440 library guests monthly.
Metro Atlanta AHA intends to expand this program to more areas where people congregate. The organization launched a health hub at The iVillage @ MLK, located at 2491 MLK Jr Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311. Residents of that area will have access to check their blood pressure numbers. The following step is to partner with churches in East Point to reach more people. Libraries With Heart is an Initiative designed to make a difference in Georgia locals’ health. For more information, log on to heart.org.
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Clayton Gutzmore
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