Updated HCFS Specification Published

NHS England has released an updated Hypertension Case‑Finding Service (HCFS) specification, published on 6 August 2026. The revised version — agreed with Community Pharmacy England — introduces several changes reflecting the 2025/26 CPCF negotiations. The new requirements take effect from 3 September 2026, giving pharmacy owners four weeks’ notice.

Key Changes to the Service

• Eligibility clarification — Patients already receiving hypertension treatment are no longer eligible for clinic checks under the service.
• Five‑year exclusion rule — In line with NICE guidance, people who have had a blood pressure check within the last five years are generally excluded.
• GP signposting criteria — Signposting from general practice is now limited to adults aged 40+, without a hypertension diagnosis, and who have not had a BP check in the last five years.
• ABPM requests from other professionals — Optometrists and dentists commissioned for case‑finding can request ABPM following clinic checks carried out in their practices.
• Clinical and consent expectations — Guidance has been strengthened around consent, clinical judgement, escalation of abnormal results, and health promotion.
• ABPM delivery requirements — Clarifications include timing, minimum readings, managing non‑attenders, and ensuring equipment availability.
• Record‑keeping and claiming — Requirements for monitoring, post‑payment verification and service withdrawal have been aligned with other Advanced services.
• Off‑site provision rules — Off‑site delivery now has a defined limit of 4 days per financial year, with ICB approval required. New guidance outlines the approval process and framework.