Tool uniting clinical and home blood pressure readings with EHR helps with hypertension management, doctor-patient shared decisions

Researchers developed and implemented a new visualization tool that combines clinical and home blood pressure readings, displaying them within the patient’s electronic health record in a single chart for easy navigation and analysis. They then studied how the tool was used during primary care visits and its effect on doctor-patient communication as it relates to shared decision-making for effective blood pressure management.

The tool was tested by a 10-practice primary care network. Researchers found that physicians and patients reviewed the home blood pressure trends over time to determine if the patient’s blood pressure was adequately controlled, regardless of how the blood pressure readings were reviewed (i.e., paper or EHR). When using the visualization tool, however, all readings were presented in the same chart, eliminating time spent navigating between the two data sources. Additionally, researchers observed that medication records embedded in the tool prompted additional conversations about possible adverse effects of medications, dosage adjustments, and the correlation between medication use and reductions in blood pressure. There were missed opportunities for such discussions when the patient’s at-home readings were not integrated with their EHR.

The tool was not found to have a significant impact on visit efficiency and length. However, the authors conclude that reviewing home blood pressure using a visualization tool is useful for clinicians and patients. It promotes shared decision making in blood pressure management in the primary care setting. Primary care practices and their patients need adequate funding and infrastructure support to realize these benefits.