Patient expectations and preferences for community-based hypertension classes with implications for action

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Community Health Interventions

Background:

• Uncontrolled hypertension disproportionately impacts Black men.
• Low patient engagement in existing hypertension control programs.
• Evidence-based hypertension classes were implemented at a Federally Qualified Health Center.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand patient preferences and expectations for community-based hypertension classes.
• To inform the design of effective hypertension management programs for Black men.

Main Methods:

• Group hypertension classes were conducted at a Federally Qualified Health Center.
• Semi-structured interviews were held with class attendees, prioritizing Black men with hypertension.
• Content analysis of interview field notes was performed by two independent coders.

Main Results:

• Interviews with seven attendees (six Black males, one Black female, mean age 65.7) revealed five key themes.
• Themes included class recommendations, expectations, attendance reasons, lifestyle changes, and improvement feedback.
• Classes met or exceeded attendee expectations, fostering open discussions about blood pressure.

Conclusions:

• Community-based group classes are a viable intervention for hypertension control disparities among Black men.
• Incorporating patient preferences and expectations enhances the effectiveness of peer-group interventions.
• This qualitative study provides a model for developing similar community-based hypertension management programs.