High Blood Pressure – Better Control Makes a Difference

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a big problem. According to the CDC, over 70 million Americans have high blood pressure and only about half have achieved adequate control of their blood pressure.  Fifty-eight percent (58%) of Medicare beneficiaries have high blood pressure. Almost half of patients treated will require more than one drug to control their blood pressure. The cost to treat high blood is close to a staggering $46 billion annually.

We have known for a long time that controlling blood pressure is important. A recent study supported by the National Institutes of Health involving over 9,000 participants demonstrated that “more intensive management of high blood pressure” can significantly reduce the risk of death and cardiovascular events. Patients were seen monthly until their systolic blood pressure (top blood pressure number) was below 120 mmHg then seen routinely as their care team felt appropriate. The goal of 120 mmHg is below what is stated in the current guidelines.

When is blood pressure most routinely checked? In the physician’s office. How reliable is that measurement? Good question. Usually the office blood pressure is an accurate measurement, but many factors can effect the quality of the office blood pressure reading: time of day, anxiety, ‘white coat syndrome’, etc. Regular blood pressure readings between appointments, following a proper diet, exercise, and reliably taking prescribed medications can increase the success in controlling blood pressure.

Together Clinic was created to bridge this gap in care. We allow patients and physicians to work together between appointments to achieve optimal blood pressure control leading to improved outcomes.