Disparities in blood pressure control within a community-based provider network: an exploratory analysis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Hypertension affects numerous individuals despite ongoing treatment.
• Identifying patterns in blood pressure (BP) control is crucial for improving therapeutic strategies and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate patterns of BP control in a diverse patient population undergoing antihypertensive treatment.
• To identify factors associated with successful BP management in a community-based network.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 51,772 hypertensive patients (aged 18+) from January 2007 to June 2010.
• Inclusion criteria: 2+ antihypertensive medication claims, documented race/ethnicity, and at least one BP reading.
• Utilized electronic medical records within a community-based provider network.

Main Results:

• Overall BP control rate was 71.4%. Nondiabetic patients achieved 76.4% control (<140/90 mmHg), while diabetic patients achieved 52.3% control (<130/80 mmHg).
• Factors linked to controlled BP: younger age, lower disease burden, better adherence, fewer prescriptions, lower copayments, and higher regional income.
• Black, Hispanic, and other minority groups were less likely to achieve controlled BP compared to white individuals, even after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions:

• Significant disparities in BP control and antihypertensive medication use were noted, particularly in diabetic patients and minority racial/ethnic groups.
• Further research and targeted interventions are needed to address these disparities and improve hypertension management in high-risk populations.