Hypertension is a prevalent health problem. Nationwide, an estimated 50 million adults have hypertension and 300,00 will die each year from associated complications. Various drugs prove useful in the treatment of hypertension, as well as lifestyle behavior changes. However, compliance with both medication regimens and lifestyle changes for hypertensives is of concern to physicians. This study examined the clinical effectiveness of a telephone outreach intervention to improve hypertension control for patients newly prescribed antihypertensive medication. The study compared the intervention with usual care conditions with respect to % reduction of diastolic blood pressure and secondary systolic pressure as assessed via chart review. Medication compliance was assessed via pharmacy records and self-report. The study included 458 members 21 years of age and older, with no other medical co-morbidities, spoke English, who had a pharmacy benefit, and prescriptions filled. One hundred and fifty of these members were in the Control Group, one hundred and fifty two members were in the Minimal Intervention group, and one hundred and fifty six were in the Full Intervention Group. The decrease in diastolic blood pressure was significantly greater in the Full Intervention Group (156) and the Minimal Intervention Group (152) when compared to the Control Group (150). The decrease in systolic blood pressure was also significantly greater in the Full Intervention Group (156) and the Minimal Intervention Group (152) when compared to the Control Group 150). Implications for health education and medical care were addressed.
Learning Objectives: Determine how emerging technologies can help connect people to healthier lifestyles. Identify how "prescription information" gained through the telephone promotes medication compliance.
Keywords: Case Management, Hypertension
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Large, national HMO
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.