Implementation of home blood pressure monitoring in clinical practice

To investigate the implementation of home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) guidelines, a phone survey was performed in 366 primary care physicians (PCPs). Of the PCPs, 90% routinely used HBPM for white-coat hypertension, treatment titration, and diagnosis. Thirty percent trusted HBPM more than office measurements. Reported drawbacks were questionable reliability of patients' reports and devices inaccuracy. Thirty-one percent advised patients on device selection, 38% were aware of validated devices, and 69% reviewed (not averaged) the readings. Seventy-nine percent used higher than recommended threshold for hypertension diagnosis. Although PCPs routinely use HBPM, there are important gaps in their knowledge and educational activities are required.