Abstract 090: Using Evidence-Based Resources And Unique Self-Measured Blood Pressure Program Designs To Improve Blood Pressure Control

Abstract

Background: The AHA National Hypertension Control Initiative (NHCI) is a $32M, 3-year grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Office of Minority Health (OMH) to provide training and technical assistance (T/TA) to 350 HRSA-funded community health centers (CHCs) with blood pressure (BP) control rates below 58.9% in 2019. Hypothesis: NHCI can improve BP control particularly among Black, Hispanic, American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) persons through systematic, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based interventions, including use of self-measured blood pressure (SMBP). Methods: AHA’s T/TA included a training curriculum, evidence-based tools from Target: BP™ and the AMA MAP™ framework, and new tools, including a BP Measurement Policy and a BP Treatment Algorithm. CHCs used these resources to change clinical care and to implement SMBP though multidisciplinary and culturally relevant approaches that reflect the organizational capacities and characteristics of their patients. For example, 3 CHCs successfully implemented SMBP programs using different designs and achieved notable improvements in BP control (defined by the performance measure <140/90 mm Hg). SWLA in Louisiana established a team-based care model that emphasizes standardized processes, including an SMBP onboarding protocol and a BP treatment algorithm. Canyonlands in Arizona coupled systematic in-clinic practices with AI/AN community health workers (CHW) to reach patients from the Navajo Nation in a culturally relevant manor. Via Care in California developed a collaborative practice model with their clinical pharmacists and clinicians for systematic medication management, SMBP and lifestyle education, and team-based visits. Results: SWLA increased BP control from 44% to 69% in 2022, Canyonlands from 53% in 2021 to 70% in 2023 in AI/AN patients that partnered with a CHW, and Via Care from 55% in 2021 to 74% in 2022. So far, the highest BP control rate percentage change was for CHCs that participated with NHCI and had a 5.1% year-over-year increase compared to 3.8% at all HRSA centers from 2020 to 2021. Conclusion: Various SMBP program designs with systematic processes, team-based care models and culturally sensitive approaches can improve BP control.