PERson-centredness in hypertension management using information technology (PERHIT): a protocol for a randomised...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Informatics
• Primary Health Care Research

Background:

• Hypertension is the leading diagnosis in primary health care (PHC), posing significant economic and health burdens.
• Despite available treatments, achieving optimal blood pressure control remains a challenge for many patients.
• Information technology offers potential solutions for enhancing hypertension management and patient self-care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an information technology-based self-management support system for hypertension.
• To assess the impact of the PERson-centredness in Hypertension management using Information Technology (PERHIT) intervention on systolic blood pressure.
• To explore improvements in person-centredness, daily activities, risk awareness, and healthcare costs.

Main Methods:

• A multicentre randomised controlled trial involving 900 patients across 36 PHC centres.
• Intervention group: received a self-management support system with home blood pressure (BP) monitoring and daily self-reports for eight weeks.
• Control group: received standard treatment as usual.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome is the change in systolic blood pressure.
• Secondary outcomes include changes in person-centredness, daily life activities, risk awareness, and healthcare costs.
• Data collection involves BP measurements and same-day self-reports.

Conclusions:

• The PERHIT study will provide insights into the interplay between lifestyle and blood pressure management.
• The self-management support system may enhance patient understanding and adherence to treatment recommendations.
• Findings will be applicable to improving hypertension care within primary health care settings.