The program seeks to identify people at risk for their disease conditions, and to teach them how to manage their lifestyle to prevent complications. Patient services are provided through the county health departments. These services include screening, referral to doctors, diagnosis, and treatment. Treatment protocols are based upon Joint National Committee recommendations and are revised as needed. Medically indigent adults are eligible for high blood pressure medications at low or no cost.
Laboratory tests are available to screen for cardiovascular risk factors and to monitor treatment.
The program also provides patient, professional, and public education. All of the health department programs screen in local health departments. Special industrial and civic group screenings are also done. Mass screenings and health fairs are occasionally done to increase public awareness of the impact of lifestyle on health. Public health nurses work with the patient's private physician in managing the patient.