Controlling Blood Pressure Among US Veterans; Evaluating VISN 1's PMC Note Tool

Abstract

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a prevalent chronic illness in approximately 45% of Americans and nonveterans compared to veterans who have a 65% higher chance of developing hypertension. Hypertension significantly increases the risks of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases, so controlling blood pressure is essential in managing and preventing these fatal diseases. Therefore, it is important to periodically screen patients for hypertension. The purpose of this project at the VA Hospital was to provide support and evaluate the organization wide 'Improving Veteran Blood Pressure Rate' project. This project was implemented as a preventative measure; to get a better understanding of Veteran's blood pressure tends to prevent future disease outcomes due to hypertension.