Impacting population cardiovascular health through a community-based practice network: update on an ASH-supported...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• South Carolina historically faced high rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• The Hypertension Initiative aimed to shift this trend towards heart and vascular health.
• Key goals included a 50% reduction in heart disease and stroke.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a statewide initiative to improve hypertension control and reduce CVD.
• To foster collaboration among healthcare practices and providers.
• To establish a model for sustainable chronic disease management.

Main Methods:

• Utilized continuing medical education to train providers and encourage specialist certification.
• Established a community-based practice network (CBPN) with practice data audits and provider feedback.
• Collected clinical data from electronic health records for quality improvement.

Main Results:

• The CBPN grew to 197 practices, serving approximately 1.6 million patients.
• Significant improvements were observed in the control of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes.
• South Carolina's CVD mortality ranking improved from 51st to 35th between 1995 and 2006.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative practice networks can achieve positive and sustainable impacts on cardiovascular health.
• Building trust and addressing practice priorities are crucial for successful participation.
• Multilateral infrastructure support and strategic planning are essential for initiative success.