Optician appointment saved Liverpool man’s life

A Liverpool man has shared how a “chance conversation” at an optician led to life-saving help.

Mike Andrews, from Tuebrook, had been at a routine trip to the optician when he picked up a leaflet about blood pressure tests.

After a discussion with the Optometrist about the initiative, Mr Andrews agreed to be screened, which led to shocking results.

Mr Andrews said: “I had no idea that decision [getting the blood test] would start a journey of some quite alarming conversations.”

The 45-year-old was advised to call NHS 111 immediately. They told him to go to his local pharmacy to try the test again on another machine.

Normal blood pressure reads between 90/60 and 120/80.

Following a reading of 255/151, Mr Andrews went straight to Aintree Hospital. Over the ten weeks that followed, he underwent multiple scans, including brain and kidney scans.

Now, he takes three medications every day, and will for the rest of his life.

He said on the outcome: “Doctors told me that without intervention, a heart attack or stroke was inevitable. My wife would have lost a husband, and my children would have lost their dad”.

He continued: “I will be eternally grateful to the Optometrist and for the option of having my blood pressure tested at that point”.

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside launched a pilot of this service in June 2025. It allows blood pressure and pulse checks during eye appointments for those between 40-79 who haven’t recently has a blood pressure check.

Over 1000 people have been tested, with around 300 people then being referred to their GP. 8 people were referred to urgent care.

Speaking on the initiative, Dr Fiona Lemmens, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Executive Clinical Director said: “By offering blood pressure checks in community settings like optometry practices, we’re reaching people who might not otherwise have their blood pressure monitored.

“Mike’s story is a powerful reminder that these simple checks can save lives. We encourage everyone eligible to take up the opportunity when offered”.

For more information on high blood pressure visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure/