Disparities in Blood Pressure Control Within a Community-Based Provider Network: An Exploratory Analysis

Background:Despite treatment for hypertension, blood pressure (BP) remains uncontrolled in many individuals. Identification of patterns in BP control may inform strategies to improve treatment and optimize health outcomes.Objective:To examine patterns in BP control among individuals receiving antihypertensive treatment in a diverse, community-based provider network.Methods:In this retrospective exploratory analysis, a total of 51.772 hypertensive subjects were identified in the electronic medical record between January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2010, who were aged 18 years or older, with 2 or more claims for antihypertensive medication, documented race/ethnicity, and 1 or more documented BP readings.Results:On the basis of Joint National Committee VII guidelines, 76.4% of nondiabetic patients had their BP controlled with treatment (<140/90 mm Hg) and 52.3% of those with diabetes had their BP controlled with treatment (<130/80 mm Hg). The overall rate of BP control was 71.4%. Factors associated with controlled...