RBPM + MII for High Blood Pressure
(BHEAT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial seeks better ways to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), a condition that can lead to serious health issues like stroke and heart attacks. It tests two approaches: remote blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) and team-based strategies to adjust treatment as needed. Suitable participants are adults diagnosed with hypertension, those taking blood pressure medication, or those with high readings whose blood pressure is not well-controlled. The study targets diverse communities in urban areas to enhance blood pressure management where it's most needed. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative strategies for managing hypertension in these communities.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that remote blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) is generally easy for people to use. Studies indicate that RBPM provides extensive information about blood pressure patterns, aiding in the management of high blood pressure. In one trial, patients using RBPM received regular reminders to report their blood pressure and medication, and no major safety issues emerged.
For Multilevel Intensification Interventions (MII), which involve team efforts to improve treatment, results vary. Some studies have shown better blood pressure control, while others are less clear about the benefits. However, the reviewed studies noted no major safety concerns.
Both RBPM and MII are under study to manage high blood pressure safely, with no major adverse effects reported so far.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for high blood pressure because they introduce innovative ways to manage the condition. Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring (RBPM) offers a cutting-edge approach by allowing patients to track their blood pressure from home, providing real-time data to healthcare providers. This method can lead to more personalized and immediate adjustments to treatment plans. Meanwhile, Multilevel Intensification Interventions (MII) aim to address the common issue of clinical inertia, which is the failure to adjust treatment despite poor control of blood pressure. By using a team-based approach, MII enhances the likelihood of timely and effective treatment adjustments. Together, these methods promise a more dynamic and responsive management of high blood pressure compared to traditional medication-based approaches.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for high blood pressure?
This trial will compare Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring (RBPM) with Multilevel Intensification Interventions (MII) for managing high blood pressure. Research has shown that checking blood pressure from home with RBPM can help lower it. In one study, participants using RBPM saw their top blood pressure number drop by an average of 7.3 points, and by as much as 16.7 points for those with very high blood pressure. Another study found that 90% of participants maintained healthy blood pressure levels for up to 42 months after using remote monitoring.
In contrast, MII has shown mixed results. Some studies indicate these methods can help control blood pressure, but others reveal varying effectiveness among individuals. MII aims to ensure treatment is adjusted quickly if blood pressure isn't under control. Overall, RBPM has more consistent evidence of effectiveness, while MII shows promise but doesn't always produce the same results.12367Who Is on the Research Team?
Michael Fischer, MD MS
Principal Investigator
Boston Medical Center, Internal Medicine
Cheryl Clark, MD ScD
Principal Investigator
Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy, MA League of CHCs
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with high blood pressure, who've seen their primary care provider at one of the nine participating sites in the past year. They must have hypertension noted in their medical records, be on medication for it, or have had three high blood pressure readings. It's not open to those with controlled blood pressure.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive remote blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) or RBPM + multilevel intensification intervention (MII) to improve hypertension control
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- RBPM
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
NeighborHealth Center Internal Medicine at Gove Street (NH IM)
Collaborator
Boston Medical Center Family Medicine Primary Care (BMC FM)
Collaborator
NeighborHealth Center Family Medicine at Maverick Street (NH FM)
Collaborator
Mattapan Community Health Center (Mattapan)
Collaborator
Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH)
Collaborator
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Collaborator
Manet Community Health Center (Maner CHC)
Collaborator
NeighborHealth South End (NH South End)
Collaborator
Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program (BHCHP)
Collaborator