implementation of healthy heart ambassador to improve blood pressure control at community health centers in Texas

Background: Hypertension is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the United States and can increase a person's risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Yet only 1 in 4 people with high blood pressure in the United States have their blood pressure managed. To improve hypertension control, we supported 9 health centers in Texas with the implementation of the Healthy Heart Ambassador Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring (HHA) Program.

Methods: We provided health center training using the HHA Program Facilitation Training Guide, recorded barriers to implementing the HHA program, and employed strategies to overcome those barriers.

Results: There were 68 staff members from the health centers trained to deliver the HHA program. Three health centers successfully implemented all three major components of HHA, three were able to implement two components, two adopted two components, and one withdrew due to insufficient capacity. Capability, technology infrastructure, and motivation were among the barriers most referenced.

Conclusion: Clinic non-physician team members delivering the HHA program will need training and ongoing technical assistance to overcome implementation barriers.