Abstract P321: Team-Based Care: A Winning Strategy for Managing Hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension is a serious health condition that can lead to heart disease. Despite available methods for managing hypertension, blood pressure (BP) control in the US is declining, highlighting a gap between expert recommendations and real-world practice. Our clinic initiative aimed to create a specialized workflow and team, which included resident physicians, pharmacists, and health counselors focused on underserved communities. We also provided blood pressure cuffs and encouraged patients to monitor their blood pressure at home. This approach, coupled with the 'Knowing Your Numbers' campaign, has significantly improved outcomes, promoted continuity of care, and built resilience within care communities for vulnerable populations. 110 patients with poorly controlled hypertension were provided with BP monitors to track their blood pressure. Demographic data and office BP readings before and after the monitors were distributed were collected from patient charts. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests. The study included 58% female participants with an average age of 59. The racial distribution was 51% black, 35% white, 10% unreported/unknown, 2% Asian, and 2% American Indian/Alaska native. Most participants (70%) reported feeling empowered in their healthcare. Female participants who received a blood pressure cuff and engaged in shared decision-making experienced a significant reduction in their systolic BP by 17.6 mm Hg (P<0.05) and diastolic BP by 7.9 mm Hg (P<0.05). In comparison, males saw a reduction in their systolic BP by 10.6 mm Hg (P<0.05) and diastolic BP by 7.1 mm Hg (P<0.05). The average weight for both genders falls under the obese category, with females having an average BMI of 32.4 and males having an average BMI of 32.6. Providing loan-free blood pressure monitoring cuffs for clinic patients or blood pressure machines through insurance can improve patient engagement and health outcomes. Removing cost barriers can significantly impact in-office blood pressure reduction, monitoring, and patient satisfaction. This initiative highlights the importance of implementing patient-centered approaches to healthcare that address the financial and logistical barriers that can hinder effective hypertension management. Future research is needed to confirm these findings, but this study supports implementing similar programs to improve patients' health and well-being.