Local health center monitoring patients’ blood pressure remotely thanks to grant
The National Hypertension Control Initiative Grant, funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Health Resources and Services Administration, and the Office of Minority Health, is allowing a local health center to monitor patients’ blood pressure remotely. The Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton are utilizing this grant to improve blood pressure control and cardiac health in patients who have a poor outcome with COVID-19.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to various health complications, including heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. To address this issue, the grant program provides qualifying patients with blood pressure monitors to use at home. Patients are instructed to measure their blood pressure twice a day, three days a week. The results are then uploaded through Bluetooth technology to the patient’s phone and transmitted to their doctor at the health center. Both the patient and the doctor receive alerts if the blood pressure readings indicate a dangerously high level.
The remote monitoring system allows healthcare providers to take immediate action based on real-time data. They can make necessary medication adjustments, provide guidance on diet and lifestyle changes, and ensure timely interventions before patients visit the health center in person.
Angie Holycross, RN care coordinator with the Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton, explains the benefits of the program, stating, When (the results) are sent remotely to the provider, we can act as well, so it gives us the opportunity to make medication changes, talk to them about diet or lifestyle, and then make those changes before they come back into the office.
In addition to remote monitoring, the program includes an educational component. Patients receive 30 minutes of education on hypertension along with alerts and information from the American Heart Association. This holistic approach aims to empower patients with knowledge and equip them with the tools to manage their blood pressure effectively.
The Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton have been implementing this program for two years, with one year remaining in the three-year grant period. Currently, they have served approximately 649 patients out of their goal of 1,700, indicating that there are still open spots in the program for interested individuals.
The outcomes of the program have been promising. Holycross reveals that 73% of patients who complete the program are able to control their blood pressure, surpassing the success rate of patients who do not participate.
To qualify for the program, patients must be over 18 years old and have been diagnosed with uncontrolled hypertension. They should also possess a smartphone and a valid email address. Additionally, individuals must be patients of the Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton, with all six locations accepting new patients irrespective of their health coverage.
The blood pressure monitoring program is free for eligible patients. To schedule a new patient appointment, individuals can call (937) 461-6869.
Preventing and managing high blood pressure is crucial in maintaining overall health. The Centers for Disease Control offers several recommendations, including making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
The remote blood pressure monitoring program supported by the National Hypertension Control Initiative Grant is proving to be an effective solution in helping patients manage their blood pressure and cardiac health. By leveraging technology and providing educational resources, the Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton are making a positive impact on the well-being of their patients.
