Where is the screening available?

CardiAction screening is available across New Zealand in select pharmacies with additional locations becoming available constantly. Visit our Locations page to see the most up-to-date options.

How much does the screening cost?

The screening service costs $99. Health Screening NZ, the service provider, sets the pricing.

How long does it take?

20-30 minutes. If you’ve set up your CardiAction account in advance then it is faster on the day.

How do I book?

Appointments can be booked directly with participating locations. Many offer online booking through our website, phone bookings, or walk-ins, though we recommend contacting the pharmacy ahead of time to confirm screener availability for walk-ins.

Who are the Screeners? What training do they have?

Screeners are selected and trained by Health Screening NZ. They receive operational training under the supervision of Health Screening NZ’s team. However, screeners are not licensed healthcare providers and follow a protocol established by Health Screening NZ. The results of your screening are reviewed by healthcare professionals, but screeners cannot diagnose or discuss any pre-existing conditions. If your CardiAction Risk Indicator score shows elevated risk, you will be encouraged to seek advice from a GP.

How does the Pulse Wave Analysis test work?

Pulse Wave Analysis (PWA) measures the shape of the pulse wave generated by your heart. The test uses the Uscom BP+ machine, a TGA/FDA-approved pulse wave analyser, to assess:

• Central (aortic) heart pressure
• Peripheral (arteries) resistance
• Cardiac efficiency (SEVR)
• Abnormalities in heart rhythm (arrhythmia)

Your results are uploaded to your CardiAction profile on the platform and added to your account in the app if you have downloaded it and set it up. This test is designed to identify increased peripheral resistance, which can indicate inflammation in the arteries. For more information, you can watch a video about the Uscom BP+ here.

Will my doctor be involved?

CardiAction screening is designed to identify early signs of cardiovascular disease risk. If your results indicate an elevated risk, we strongly recommend consulting your GP for further evaluation and treatment. The screening does not replace medical advice or a comprehensive diagnosis. If your doctor has any questions, they can contact Health Screening NZ’s medical team.

Am I required to do anything to prepare for the test?

To streamline the process, we recommend downloading and signing up for the CardiAction app before your appointment. Please avoid caffeine and exercise two hours before your screening, as these can temporarily elevate blood pressure and affect your results. Staying hydrated and relaxed will also improve accuracy.

Does a PWA test hurt?

No, the PWA test is non-invasive and pain-free. It’s similar to having your blood pressure taken with a cuff placed around your arm. We aim to create a stress-free environment to ensure the most accurate results.

How accurate is the test?

The CardiAction screening uses scientifically validated technology. The Uscom BP+ machine, which is used in the screening, is TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved for pulse wave analysis. However, the CardiAction platform itself is exempt from FDA and TGA approval under relevant exemption rules, as it is a non-diagnostic screening tool designed to identify potential cardiovascular risk. While CardiAction helps in identifying early warning signs, it is important to consult your doctor for a comprehensive diagnosis and further medical advice.

I’m on medication, will this effect the test?

If you’re on heart medication, please inform the screener at the start of your appointment. The test may indicate whether your medication is effectively reducing inflammation in your arteries.

What lifestyle suggestions will you provide?

The lifestyle recommendations are tailored to your individual results and factors such as age and weight. They include advice on exercise, diet, and possibly supplements like Omega-3, all aimed at improving cardiovascular health.

When should I schedule a follow-up appointment?

FFollow-up recommendations depend on your screening results. We suggest returning after 1-3 months if interventions are needed. If your results are good, we recommend an annual screening to maintain heart health—think of it as a yearly Warrant of Fitness (WOF) for your heart.

Can you provide custom screening packages for businesses or community groups?

Yes! Health Screening NZ offers tailored screening packages for businesses and community groups. Visit our Community Screenings or For Employers sections of the website.

Do I need to download the app to have a screening?

No, the app is not required. We can provide you with a printed report that contains the same information. If you choose to join the CardiAction platform later, we can upload your results for you.

Is this screening suitable for everyone?

CardiAction screening is safe for most people. However, if you have a pre-existing cardiovascular condition or are currently undergoing treatment, we recommend consulting your GP before booking an appointment.

How is my personal data stored, and who has access to it?

All personal information is securely stored by Health Screening NZ in compliance with the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020. Only authorised healthcare professionals involved in your screening have access to your data. Your privacy and confidentiality are our top priorities.

Can I get a second opinion on my CardiAction results?

Yes. You can share your CardiAction results with your GP or any healthcare professional for further evaluation. CardiAction is a screening tool designed to help you identify early risk factors, but it does not replace a full medical diagnosis or specialist care.

Can the CardiAction results be shared with my doctor directly?

Health Screening NZ send you a copy of your CardiAction results so you can share this with your GP or other healthcare providers. This will assist them in evaluating your cardiovascular health further.

What happens if I receive a high-risk result?

If your CardiAction Risk Indicator score shows elevated risk, we strongly advise visiting your GP as soon as possible for a more thorough evaluation. Your GP will be able to conduct additional tests, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes.

What happens if my CardiAction results conflict with previous medical tests?

CardiAction is a screening tool that provides insight into potential cardiovascular risk. If the results differ from previous medical tests, we recommend discussing them with your GP. Your doctor can help clarify the results and determine whether further testing or a different approach is needed.

How do I interpret my CardiAction Risk Indicator score?

The CardiAction Risk Indicator score helps assess your potential cardiovascular disease risk. Your screener will explain the score to you and provide an overview of what the results mean. However, only a GP or a specialist can give you a full diagnosis and advice on managing your cardiovascular health.

Why does the Uscom BP+ machine take three readings?

The Uscom BP+ machine takes three consecutive readings to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of results. Variability in blood pressure can occur due to physiological changes such as slight arm movements, changes in posture, or even minute-to-minute fluctuations in blood pressure and vascular tone. By taking multiple readings, the BP+ reduces the influence of these variations and provides a more reliable average. This is particularly important for assessing central blood pressure (the pressure at the heart), which is a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular risk than conventional arm (brachial) blood pressure.

For clinicians, it’s important to understand that these three readings help increase the accuracy of the result as variation in vascular tone due to the environment may occur. This method aligns with research-backed protocols for improved reliability, as slight inconsistencies in a single reading may not reflect the patient’s true blood pressure.

The three readings also allow the BP+ to capture a more accurate picture of central and peripheral pressure while adjusting for environmental factors such as noise or movement that could impact a single reading. This practice helps ensure that the reported values are as consistent and actionable as possible.

For doctors who would like to learn more, please click on these two links: BP+ Measurements and How is central BP different from conventional BP?