Remote Cardiovascular Hypertension Program Enhanced Blood Pressure Control During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional healthcare delivery, leading to reduced blood pressure (BP) assessments.
• Existing remote hypertension management programs faced challenges in effectiveness and adaptability during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the effectiveness and adaptability of a remote hypertension management program.
• To evaluate changes in blood pressure control among patients managed remotely before and during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective observational analysis of 1256 patients (605 pre-pandemic, 651 during pandemic) in a remote hypertension management program.
• Utilized an evidence-based clinical algorithm, adapted during the pandemic, managed by a multidisciplinary team.
• Compared blood pressure control rates, home BP readings, and program engagement metrics between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods.

Main Results:

• The rate of achieving goal blood pressure (BP) significantly improved to 94.6% during the pandemic from 75.8% prepandemic (P<0.0001).
• Mean home BP fell approximately 16/9 mm Hg in both periods, with faster BP control maintenance during the pandemic (median 11.8 vs. 19.6 weeks).
• Increased patient engagement observed during the pandemic, with more frequent monthly calls (8.2 vs. 3.1) and home BP recordings (32.4 vs. 18.9).

Conclusions:

• A remote hypertension management program successfully adapted to pandemic challenges, demonstrating improved BP control and increased home BP monitoring.
• The program's adaptability and effectiveness suggest a transformative potential for hypertension management and care delivery.
• Remote management strategies are crucial for maintaining and improving cardiovascular health outcomes amidst healthcare disruptions.