EMPOWERING BUFFALO: IMPROVING HYPERTENSION THROUGH FREE BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR LOANING AND SHARED DECISION-MAKING

Abstract

Therapeutic Area

Preventive Cardiology Best Practices – clinic operations, team approaches, outcomes research

Background

Hypertension is a serious health concern that can lead to heart disease and other complications. Despite the availability of proven methods for managing hypertension, recent data shows that blood pressure (BP) control in the US is declining. This highlights a gap between expert recommendations and real-world practice. To address this issue, our initiative focuses on serving underserved communities, specifically those the Hertel Elmwood Clinic serves. By loaning out blood pressure cuffs ( through AHA grants) and utilizing self-measured blood pressure monitoring, we aim to manage hypertension remotely. This approach has significant implications for empowering patients, improving outcomes, promoting continuity of care, and building resilience within care communities that cater to vulnerable populations.

Methods

A cohort of 83 individuals diagnosed with hypertension were equipped with BP monitors to track their blood pressure. Patient charts were examined to gather demographic data and office BP readings for 1-3 months pre- and post-monitor distribution. Furthermore, a phone survey with 24 questions was administered to a subset of patients to assess their engagement and satisfaction levels. Responses were measured using a Likert scale and binary answers. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests.

Results

After conducting a thorough analysis of the data chart, the participants who received a blood pressure cuff and shared decision-making witnessed a remarkable reduction in their systolic BP by 11.7 mm Hg (P<0.05, 5.15 to 7.54) and diastolic BP by 4.25 mm Hg (P<0.05, 3.88 to 4.93). The participants comprised 66% females, with an average participant age of 61. The race distribution was 70% African American, 20% Caucasian, and 10% unreported. Most participants (90%) reported feeling empowered in their healthcare and other benefits.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the data presented in this study provides compelling evidence that delivering free BP monitors or BP machines covered by insurance to clinic patients is a highly effective strategy for improving health outcomes and patient engagement. The results demonstrate that removing cost barriers can significantly impact in-office BP reduction, BP monitoring, and patient satisfaction. This program benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving patient engagement and overall satisfaction. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of exploring and implementing novel approaches to healthcare that prioritize patient-centered care and address the financial and logistical barriers that can hinder effective hypertension management. Further research is needed to confirm the generalizability of these findings and determine this program's long-term effectiveness. Nonetheless, this study provides a strong basis for future research and supports the implementation of similar programs to improve the health and well-being of patients.