Hypertension in Florida: Data From the OneFlorida Clinical Data Research Network

Area of Science:

• Public Health Surveillance
• Cardiovascular Health Informatics
• Clinical Data Analytics

Background:

• Hypertension is highly prevalent in Florida.
• Current surveillance (BRFSS) relies on self-reported data, missing undiagnosed cases and blood pressure measurements.
• Need for enhanced methods to capture the full scope of hypertension.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the hypertensive population in Florida using the OneFlorida Clinical Research Consortium.
• To provide a proof-of-concept for augmenting surveillance with routinely collected electronic health record (EHR) data.
• To identify geographic disparities in diagnosed, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled hypertension.

Main Methods:

• Identified hypertensive patients (Jan 2012-June 2016) using EHR diagnosis codes or elevated blood pressure readings (≥140/90 mm Hg).
• Characterized the hypertensive population and mapped prevalence by zip code to county.
• Analyzed data to differentiate diagnosed, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled hypertension.

Main Results:

• Identified 838,469 hypertensive patients (27.9% prevalence).
• 68% had a diagnosis; 61% had elevated blood pressure.
• Geographic variations observed: diagnosed hypertension higher in North Florida; undiagnosed in East Coast, South Florida, and Panhandle. Uncontrolled hypertension concentrated in South Florida and Western Panhandle.

Conclusions:

• EHR data effectively identifies uncontrolled and potentially undiagnosed hypertension missed by current surveillance.
• Clinical data from pragmatic research networks like OneFlorida are crucial for tailored public health programs and healthcare services.
• This approach enhances hypertension surveillance and management strategies.