Telephone Outreach and Skill-Based Group Education Improves Blood Pressure in Patients at a Community Health Center

This study aims to evaluate a dual approach to reduce blood pressure among patients at a Community Health Center in the Southeast through telephonic outreach and skill-based self-management classes.

A pre-post single cohort design was implemented over five months. Trained ambassadors conducted telephone outreach to invite Black adults with uncontrolled hypertension (systolic > 160 mmHg and/or diastolic > 100 mmHg) to participate in group classes focusing on skill-based blood pressure self-monitoring and health education. Patient-reported class interest, blood pressure, and class attendance were recorded. Paired t-tests were used to analyze BP changes before and after the intervention.

Of 291 patients called, 149 (51.2%) engaged with the caller, 71 (47.7%) expressed interest in classes, and 24 (16.1%) attended class. After outreach, reductions in blood pressure (systolic: 170.47 mmHg to 139.94 mmHg, p < 0.001; diastolic: 97.15 mmHg to 83.21 mmHg, p < 0.001) were observed. Among those attending the first class, 75% did not own a blood pressure monitor.

A dual approach using telephonic outreach and self-monitoring skill acquisition was associated with reduced blood pressure, but barriers to in-person attendance persist. Providing blood pressure monitors and digital education resources could enhance outcomes for high-risk Black patients.