Self-management of Blood Pressure Medication for Hypertensive Veterans

Hypertension is the most common medical problem among US Veterans. Treatment is available and effective, but control rates remain under 75%. While blood pressure control has traditionally been achieved through sequential visits and medication changes initiated by providers during office-based care, self-monitoring and self-management of blood pressure medication is an important strategy that would empower Veterans to achieve better control of blood pressure. The health impacts of better systems for treatment of hypertension are significant, including decreased rates of cardiovascular and kidney disease. This two-site clinical trial will randomize 400 Veterans to either usual blood pressure care or a self-management strategy in which patient-driven self-management of blood pressure medications will be taught and used over the course of 1 year.