November 1, 2018
CVH Network Leadership Team is accepting nominations for 2019! Learn more on our Leadership Team webpage.
July 3, 2018
Fireside Chat Illuminates YMCA Community-Based Hypertension Control Program
In the spring of 2018, NACDD, CDC and the YMCA of the USA collaborated to present a fireside chat on the Y-USA Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program (Y-BPSM). The Y-USA designed this program to help adults with hypertension lower and manage their blood pressure. The program focuses on regulated home self-monitoring of one’s blood pressure using proper measuring techniques, individualized support and nutrition education for better blood pressure management. The webinar increased respondent knowledge of the Y-BPSM program and of approaches in achieving equity and in reaching underserved populations. Among attendees who completed an evaluation survey, all reported that they were likely to apply information from this webinar to their work. One week after the webinar, staff in several state health departments reported that they were planning to reach out to their local YMCA chapters.
Over 100 attendees represented 34 state health departments, 8 health departments and 7 partner organizations. An additional 14 individuals accessed the recording. NACDD will continue to work with CDC and the CVH Network Leadership Team to develop learning opportunities that advance state work in cardiovascular health efforts. Additional information about the Y-BPSM program is available here.
November 9, 2017
This year, Million Hearts® and CDC recognize 24 health care professionals, practices, and systems as 2017 Hypertension Control Champions for their success in achieving blood pressure control rates for at least 70% of their adult patients with hypertension. Together, these Champions cared for more than 1.2 million adults and represented a range of small and large health practices and systems. For a full list of the 2017 Hypertension Control Champions, visit the Million Hearts® website at https://millionhearts.hhs.gov/partners-progress/champions/list.html.
Saving lives through better blood pressure control has been a longstanding CDC priority. By recognizing the Champions’ performance and sharing their lessons learned, CDC aims to help other health care professionals achieve the same success in communities nationwide.
“Too many Americans have high blood pressure, putting them at greater risk for a heart attack, stroke, dementia and other serious health threats,” said CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald, M.D. “Controlling blood pressure is one of the most effective ways to keep people healthy. We applaud these Champions for such great progress.”
To be eligible, entrants shared verifiable high blood pressure control data and highlighted successful strategies and best practices adopted by the practice or system, such as the use of health information technology and team-based care. All Champions achieved control rates of 70 percent or greater for their adult patients by using a variety of approaches, including:
- Making high blood pressure control a priority
- Using evidence-based treatment guidelines and protocols
- Using health care teams to increase the frequency of contact with patients
- Implementing consistent, strategic use of electronic health records that include clinical decision support tools, patient reminders, and registry functionality
- Staying engaged with patients by offering free blood pressure checks and implementing the use of a patient navigator or care coordinator
Million Hearts is a national initiative to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes between 2017 and 2022. CDC co-leads Million Hearts with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. For more information about the initiative and to access resources, visit http://millionhearts.hhs.gov.