Implementation and Integration of a Hospital-Wide Postpartum Hypertension Clinic

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality.
• HDP increases risks for hospital readmission and long-term cardiovascular disease.
• Guidelines recommend close follow-up for severe HDP cases within 72 hours post-discharge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a specialized postpartum hypertension (PPHTN) clinic.
• To assess if the PPHTN clinic improves patient follow-up rates and management of hypertension after childbirth.
• To identify impacts on blood pressure control and readmission rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 157 women with severe HDP referred to a PPHTN clinic.
• Data collected from March 2022 to February 2023 at a tertiary care hospital.
• Primary outcomes included 72-hour follow-up, goal blood pressure achievement, and readmission rates; secondary outcomes included education, BP cuff provision, and medication management.

Main Results:

• 53% of patients were seen within 72 hours of discharge.
• 28% achieved goal blood pressure (<130/80) at the first visit, and 58% at subsequent visits.
• 5% of women were readmitted; 86% received HDP education, and 85% were discharged on antihypertensives.

Conclusions:

• The PPHTN clinic initiative successfully improved timely follow-up within 72 hours post-discharge.
• The clinic facilitated better longitudinal management and patient education for severe HDP.
• Further research is warranted to assess readmission reduction and cost-effectiveness of PPHTN clinics.