Direct mail as a prompt for follow-up care among persons at risk for hypertension

Am J Prev Med. 1988 Nov-Dec;4(6):331-5.

Abstract

We undertook a direct mail campaign to urge persons identified as being at risk for hypertension to seek medical advice. Those who received a single mailing displayed a 28% increase in the proportion who subsequently discussed their blood pressure with a physician and a 12% increase in the proportion who had their blood pressure rechecked, while those persons who received six mailings reported an equivalent increase in physician discussions but a smaller increase in rechecking their blood pressure. These results support the use of inexpensive social marketing strategies as follow-up methods for blood pressure screening programs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Health Education
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / prevention & control*
  • Life Style
  • Male
  • Marketing of Health Services
  • Middle Aged
  • Minnesota
  • North Dakota
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Postal Service*
  • Risk Factors