Monument Health partners with Rapid City Public Library and American Heart Association to launch free blood pressure monitoring station for Black Hills residents
Rapid City, S.D. (June 11, 2025) — Managing high blood pressure is a critical component of preventing heart disease and stroke. According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of all Americans have high blood pressure, which significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Accessibility to health resources is essential for ensuring a healthy population.
Monument Health, in collaboration with the Rapid City Public Library and the American Heart Association, has established the area’s first free Community Heart Hub. The Heart Hub provides a dedicated space within the Library where adults can check their blood pressure, learn about blood pressure categories and access important health resources. The station features an automated blood pressure cuff and educational materials.
“One of our priorities at Monument Health is to provide free health screenings in our communities,” said Anna Whetham, Community Relations Manager at Monument Health. “By improving access to health care and meeting people where they are, we empower our community to take preventive care seriously.”s
“The Rapid City Public Library is committed to serving as a community resource hub that extends beyond books and digital media,” said Terri Davis, Library Director at Rapid City Public Library. “The Community Heart Hub aligns perfectly with our mission to improve lives through learning, discovery and enrichment. We’re proud to partner with Monument Health and the American Heart Association to offer this valuable health resource to our patrons.”
“Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, yet many remain unaware of their condition because it often presents no symptoms,” said Robin Albers, Regional Director at the American Heart Association. “The Community Heart Hub is an innovative approach to increasing blood pressure awareness and control. By making monitoring accessible in familiar community spaces like the library, we can help more people know their numbers and take steps toward better heart health.”
Monument Health plans to open additional Heart Hubs in other Black Hills communities.