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Why measure blood pressure over 24 hours?
A single blood pressure reading at a medical clinic only reflects a single snapshot in time. Blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day in response to physical activity, mental stress, meals, medications, and sleep.
A 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) takes automatic readings at regular intervals across an entire day and night. This provides your doctor with an accurate, real-world profile of your daytime and sleeping averages.
What the day and night readings can show
High readings in the clinic
Some people have higher readings at a medical appointment than in everyday life. This is often called a white-coat effect. Monitoring away from the clinic can help your doctor decide whether your blood pressure is consistently high and whether you need treatment.
High readings that a clinic visit misses
The reverse can also happen: clinic readings may look acceptable while your blood pressure is higher outside the clinic. This is called masked hypertension. A 24-hour recording can help check for this when other findings suggest it may be happening.
The effect of treatment and sleep
If you take blood pressure medicines, monitoring can show whether their effect lasts through the day and whether there are periods of low pressure. Night-time readings also matter, because blood pressure usually falls during sleep. The report helps your doctor weigh up what that pattern means for you.
A single high or low reading doesn't determine the result. The averages, the number of usable readings, your activity and your sleep are all taken into account.
About 15 minutes
For fitting and instructions
24-hour monitoring
Repeated readings by day and night
Keep your arm still
Each time the cuff inflates
What happens during the appointment
- Fitting the cuff:
Our technician will select an appropriately sized cuff for your upper arm and take baseline test readings. The cuff connects via a flexible tube to a small recorder worn on a strap. - Automatic readings:
The cuff will gently inflate at regular intervals (typically every 20 to 30 minutes during the day, and less often at night). - When the cuff inflates:
Whenever you feel the cuff begin to inflate, pause safely, relax your arm, and keep it still by your side until the pressure releases. Moving or bending your arm can cause an error and prompt the device to repeat the measurement. - Keeping a daily log:
Carry on with your normal daily routines. Write down when you take your medications, when you go to bed and wake up, and any symptoms (such as dizziness). This helps your doctor interpret readings taken during activity versus rest.
If you've been referred to Heartscope
To arrange 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, you will need a referral from your GP or specialist. Have your referral ready when contacting us.
Fees
The test costs $120, with a separate $50 equipment deposit. The deposit is refunded when you return the monitor in good condition at the agreed time. The clinic will confirm what you'll pay before your visit. For the latest fees, see the page for your clinic under Our Locations.
After you return the monitor
Our cardiac team will compile your readings, calculating your daytime, nighttime, and overall averages. A report is sent directly to your referring doctor, who will review the results with you and determine whether medication adjustments or lifestyle changes are beneficial.
Preparing for the appointment
Before the fitting appointment
- Shower beforehand: Because the cuff and monitor cannot get wet, you cannot shower, bathe, or swim during the 24 hours. We recommend showering right before your appointment.
- What to wear: Wear loose-fitting clothing with wide sleeves so the cuff fits comfortably directly against your bare upper arm.
- Medications and diet: Eat, drink, and take your usual medications as normal, unless your doctor specifies otherwise.
- Equipment deposit: Please bring a $50 refundable equipment deposit to your appointment (payable by cash or card).
Please note that only 1 person will be allowed into the appointment room due to space constraints. Family, children, guardians, friends and carers will only be allowed in if it's absolutely necessary. A language interpreter can come in with you.
After 24 hours
- After 24 hours have passed, please take the monitor off, put it back in the pouch with your diary, and return it to the clinic the same day.
- Once you bring the monitor back to the clinic, your $50 deposit will be refunded to you on the day.
What to bring
- Your referral and Medicare card.
- A list of your medicines, including doses and usual times.
- Any home blood pressure record or previous monitoring report.
- The $50 refundable equipment deposit, paid by cash or card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Heartscope provide 24-hour blood pressure monitoring?
Yes. Heartscope fits 24-hour blood pressure monitors by referral. The clinic will give you instructions for wearing the monitor and confirm when to return it.
Is this the same as a Holter monitor?
No. A blood pressure monitor uses an arm cuff to measure your blood pressure at intervals, while an ECG Holter monitor uses chest electrodes to record your heart's electrical rhythm. Your doctor may ask for either or both.
Do I need to stop working for every reading?
Whenever safe to do so, pause and keep your arm relaxed and straight. If you are driving or operating machinery, continue safely and keep your arm as relaxed as possible.
Can I shower with it on?
No. The device and cuff must stay dry. Please shower before your appointment and wait until the test finishes before showering again.
What if the cuff keeps waking me?
Note this in your diary. Waking up during cuff inflation is relatively common, and noting poor sleep helps your doctor accurately evaluate your overnight readings.
Should I worry about one high reading?
No. The report evaluates overall 24-hour trends and averages, not an isolated number. Never alter your medications based on a single reading without consulting your doctor.
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Visit us
Cardiology clinics across Melbourne.
24 Hour BP Monitor
Ashburton
ashburton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Boronia
boronia
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Coolaroo
coolaroo
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Cranbourne
cranbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Dandenong
dandenong
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Keysborough
keysborough
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Lalor
lalor
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
M-City Clayton
clayton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Melbourne
melbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Moonee Ponds
moonee-ponds
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Mooroolbark
mooroolbark
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Pakenham
pakenham
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
St Albans
st-albans
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Sunnybank
sunnybank
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $100, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 |
| HeartBug | Privately billed |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Werribee
werribee
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Wheelers Hill
wheelers-hill
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
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