UC-created algorithm can help treat chronic health condition

"The challenge isn't the science - we know how to control blood pressure. This is all about having a system-wide focus that actually moves the needle. The UC Way Hypertension Medication Algorithm represents this system-wide approach, standardizing treatment across multiple health centers with a stepwise methodology embedded in electronic medical records."

"High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects about 48% of all U.S. adults. Although there are treatments for high blood pressure, about 50% to 80% of people with hypertension do not have their condition under control. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that over 664,000 people died in 2023 due to conditions primarily related to hypertension."

"Researchers from multiple UC institutions, including UC San Francisco and UC Berkeley, reported a statistically significant increase in the number of patients who were able to control their blood pressure after the algorithm was implemented in 2023 across the six UC academic health centers, translating to improved health for nearly 5,000 patients."

UC San Francisco researchers created the UC Way Hypertension Medication Algorithm to standardize blood pressure treatment across six UC academic health centers. The algorithm, embedded in electronic medical records, uses a stepwise approach emphasizing affordable medications and reducing treatment variation among patient groups. A study published in BMJ Open Quality found statistically significant improvements in blood pressure control after the algorithm's 2023 implementation. Nearly 5,000 patients achieved better health outcomes, with dozens of deaths prevented. This addresses a critical public health issue, as hypertension affects 48% of U.S. adults, yet 50-80% lack adequate control despite available treatments.

Read at SFGATE