[Optimizing blood pressure control through telemedicine in Primary Care in Spain (Iniciativa Óptima): Results from a...

Members of the working groups on hypertension or cardiovascular disease of the Spanish Societies of Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) [SEMERGEN], Family and Community Medicine [semFYC] and General and Family Physicians [SEMG], conducted a Delphi study to validate with a panel of PCPs with expertise in hypertension several recommendations to optimize teleconsultation in hypertensive patients.

Delphi study based on an online questionnaire with 59 recommendations based on the available evidence and the clinical experience of the authors.

118 PCPs participated in two rounds of the questionnaire (98.3% of the invited physicians), reaching consensus in 53/62 statements (85%). The Primary Care team must proactively select the hypertensive patients suitable for telematic consultation and contact them to set up an appointment. Telematic consultation must begin explaining the reason and aims pursued, continuing with anamnesis, which must explore signs and symptoms of disease worsening, current treatments and level of adherence. In patients with a home blood pressure measurement (HBPM) ≤135/85mmHg, it is recommended to schedule a new telematic appointment in 3-6months. On the contrary, asymptomatic patients with a HBPM ≥135/85mmHg should undergo ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, treatment modification or, in case of warning signs or symptoms, referral to a face-to-face visit or to emergency department.

Teleconsultation can complement face-to-face consultation, constituting an additional tool for the appropriate follow-up of hypertensive patients.