[Arterial hypertension: prevention and control at the community level. Model for a plan action]

This paper presents a model of care of the patient with the problem of systemic arterial hypertension, from the point of view of the organization of community service. The development of such a service should be closely linked with the existing community health services, specially those dealing with preventive medicine, but also with other resources and their particular needs. The paper gives, general recomendations considering the main needs brought by arterial hypertension as a pathologic process. The organization should be integrated by a multidisciplinary group and pointed out their objectives and goals. The task program should be made accordingly to the peculiar conditions of the community. Such type of community service has worked years ago in developed countries. Since the problem of hypertension in our environment is already a public health problem, it is becomming necessary to achive some experience in this type of organization, as well as having preliminary results with the community response to this service.