Court Thorn Surgery is delighted to announce a fundraising campaign to purchase an Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) machine, a valuable diagnostic tool that will help us identify circulatory problems earlier and improve patient care across our community.
To help raise funds, members of our team, Rachel, Kelly and Craig, will be taking part in a tandem skydive on 30 August 2026, quite literally taking the leap to support better healthcare for local patients.
What is an ABPI Machine?
An ABPI machine is used to perform a simple, painless and non-invasive test that compares blood pressure readings in the arms and ankles. These readings help clinicians assess how well blood is flowing to the legs and feet and can identify signs of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).
PAD is a common circulatory condition caused by narrowed arteries reducing blood flow to the limbs. Many people who have PAD experience few or no symptoms, meaning the condition often goes undetected until more serious health problems develop.
Why Is Early Detection Important?
PAD can increase the risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Non-healing leg and foot wounds
- Ulceration
- Amputation in severe cases
Identifying circulation problems at an early stage allows patients to receive treatment, advice and ongoing monitoring before complications arise.
How Will This Benefit Our Patients?
Having an ABPI machine available within the practice would help us:
- Detect circulation problems earlier.
- Support faster assessment and treatment planning.
- Improve monitoring for patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Enhance wound care and healing assessments.
- Reduce the need for additional appointments elsewhere where appropriate.
- Provide more convenient access to testing closer to home.
The equipment would be particularly beneficial for patients with diabetes, heart and vascular conditions, chronic wounds, and those at increased risk of circulatory disease.
Find Out More
We have produced an information leaflet explaining Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), how ABPI testing works, who may benefit from testing, and why it plays such an important role in early diagnosis and ongoing patient care.
Patients interested in learning more are encouraged to read the leaflet, available from the practice.
How You Can Help
As with many community healthcare projects, support from our patients, local residents and businesses can make a real difference.
Every donation will help bring this important diagnostic equipment to Court Thorn Surgery and support earlier diagnosis, better treatment and improved health outcomes for our patients.
Donations can be made:
Online:
View the link for this below.
In Person:
Cash or cheque donations can be made at the practice reception.
Thank you for supporting our fundraising efforts and helping us continue to enhance the care we provide to our local community.
