Patient expectations and preferences for community‐based hypertension classes with implications for action

Abstract

Background Uncontrolled hypertension disproportionately affects Black men. Patient engagement with health promotion and health behavior programs for hypertension control is low. We held evidence‐based hypertension classes at a Federally Qualified Health Center. Aims The aim of this project was to elicit patient preferences and expectations for community‐based hypertension classes. Methods Group hypertension classes were held at a Federally Qualified Health Center. The priority population was Black men with hypertension. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with the group class attendees. Two independent coders performed content analysis using field notes from the interviews. Results Seven group class attendees were interviewed. Six interviewees were Black males, one was a Black female, and the mean age was 65.7 years. Content analysis of the interview field notes revealed five content areas: (1) Recommendation of Group Classes to a Friend, (2) Expectations for the Group Classes, (3) Reasons for Continued Attendance, (4) Lifestyle Changes and Adopting the Group Class Lessons, and (5) Feedback and Recommendations to Improve Group Classes. Findings suggest that creating a cultural context in which open, transparent discussion of blood pressure occur can be achieved. Thus, regarding acceptability, classes fulfilled and often exceeded the attendees’ expectations and needs. Linking Evidence to Action Our findings suggest that community‐based group classes are a viable intervention to contribute toward addressing the disparity of hypertension control among Black men. When designing peer‐group interventions, taking patient preferences and expectations into account increases the effectiveness of these interventions. The qualitative narrative provided in this paper contributes to the development of similar community‐based group classes for the management of severe hypertension.

A Systematic Review of Patient Preferences, Expectations, and Values for the Management and Treatment of Hypertension

“…In another study, 17 most of the pregnant hypertensive patients said they would prefer information about pregnancy hypertension from their physicians (79%), and nearly 82% wanted this information when they were at risk for pregnancy hypertension before they experienced hypertension. According to Bulgin et al, 18 patients were expected to learn about hypertension and comprehend the advantages of making lifestyle adjustments. According to the research by Mah et al, 19 51.4% of patients chose a collaborative role with a doctor, 44.8% preferred a passive role, and only 1.9% preferred an active role.…”