Remote Monitoring and Pharmacist Collaboration Improves Blood Pressure Control in High-Risk Patients

A groundbreaking study presented at the American Heart Association's Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2024 has demonstrated significant improvements in blood pressure control for patients with resistant hypertension through a novel remote monitoring program. The research, conducted by Geisinger Health in Pennsylvania, found that up to 74% of participants achieved blood pressure levels below 140/90 mm Hg within 12 months of enrolling in the ConnectedCare365 Hypertension Management program.

The study targeted patients with blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg who were receiving care in kidney specialty clinics. Participants were provided with Bluetooth-enabled remote blood pressure monitoring devices that transmitted data to a central monitoring center. A key component of the program was the collaboration between doctors and pharmacists in managing patient care and adjusting medications.

Dr. Alexander Chang, senior study author and nephrologist at Geisinger Health, emphasized the program's innovative approach: "By deploying these extra resources to get blood pressure under control in high-risk patients and reducing hospitalizations, we are hoping that we can help provide more justification in expanding these types of programs."

The study's results were impressive, with 67% of patients achieving blood pressure control at six months and 74% at 12 months. Systolic blood pressure decreased by an average of 3.3 mm Hg per month for those with initial readings above 150/90 mm Hg. Notably, pharmacist telehealth encounters were documented in 65% of patients and were associated with a 1.3 mm Hg per month decline in systolic blood pressure.

During the study period, 46% of patients had their blood pressure medication adjusted, and 37% were prescribed new medications. Importantly, patients experienced fewer hospitalizations compared to the previous 12 months, although there was no difference in emergency department visits.

The study included 205 adults with an average age of 62 years, with 53% having a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease at enrollment. The diverse participant group included 87% non-Hispanic white adults, 6% Black adults, and 5% Hispanic adults.

Dr. Wanpen Vongpatanasin, professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center and clinical chair of the Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2024 Executive Committee, highlighted the program's potential: "This is an important program that allows for more efficient management of a high-risk patient group. This program's team-based care approach including a pharmacist remotely makes it a feasible option to increase access."

The study's strengths included its ability to review hospitalization data, the inclusion of pharmacists, and its real-world setting. However, limitations included patients serving as their own control group and the requirement for internet access.

This research underscores the potential of remote monitoring and pharmacist collaboration in improving hypertension management, particularly for high-risk patients. As healthcare systems seek efficient and effective ways to manage chronic conditions, this model could provide a blueprint for expanding access to care and improving patient outcomes.

For more information on hypertension management and the latest cardiovascular research, visit the American Heart Association website.