Atrium Health Navicent now offers additional health education and support for patients diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Although people of all races may suffer from high blood pressure, the condition disproportionately affects Black, Hispanic and Asian individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart failure and stroke.
“Atrium Health Navicent seeks to reach patients in underserved and rural areas, particularly those who may be facing health disparities and struggling with access to quality health care,” said Carol Babcock, Atrium Health Navicent’s assistant vice president for Healthy Communities and Virtual Health. “The High Blood Pressure Clinic and accompanying Care Management Program launched earlier this year are examples of how we’re delivering on our ‘For All mission’ to improve health for everyone through individualized education and support services.”
Any patient admitted to Atrium Health Navicent with an existing or new high blood pressure diagnosis is screened for entrance into the High Blood Pressure Care Management Program. Nurses visit patients to distribute educational materials for them to take home, and follow-up with patients after their discharge to answer questions and ensure they are receiving care to manage their condition.
Patients who do not have a primary care provider – or who need more in-depth monitoring – are offered a referral to the High Blood Pressure Clinic which conveniently serves patients at the Heart Success Clinic, part of Atrium Health Navicent Heart and Vascular Care. Patients who may face barriers to receiving medical care due to a lack of transportation, income or social support, are linked with a care coordinator who helps connect them with community resources.
“If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it’s important that you take steps to manage your condition – exercise regularly, limit your intake of salt and alcohol, quit smoking and take any prescribed medication,” said Dr. Erskine A. James, an Atrium Health Navicent cardiologist. “Also be sure to see your primary care physician regularly for assistance monitoring your blood pressure and other health needs.”
During National Minority Health Month, observed each April, Atrium Health Navicent is seeking to raise awareness about health disparities that continue to affect people from racial and ethnic minority groups and to encourage action through health education, early detection and control of disease complications. Congestive heart failure, diabetes and high blood pressure disproportionately affect minorities and patients who may struggle with socio-economic barriers to receiving health care, have other underlying health conditions, or who need higher levels of care and support.
In addition to the Care Management and High Blood Pressure Clinic, Atrium Health Navicent provides support and education through Congestive Heart Failure and Diabetes disease management programs. Atrium Health Navicent patients who are identified as being at a high risk for readmission or emergency room visits are referred to the programs.