Management of patients with hypertension: a hypertension clinic model.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a successful system for managing outpatients with hypertension.


METHODS
The establishment of a Hypertension Clinic in the Division of Hypertension at the Mayo Clinic was reviewed.


METHODS
The assignment of responsibilities in the use of a team approach was evaluated, and the various types of patients encountered were compared.


RESULTS
Our experience has shown optimal control of hypertension in outpatients with use of a team approach, including hypertension medical specialists, nurses, dietitians, and nurse-educators. Patients also assume an active role in their own care, particularly for compliance with medications and recommended lifestyle changes, attendance at the Hypertension Clinic for follow-up monitoring, and reporting of symptoms or side effects of drugs. Individual goals are established, and patients are managed by the nurse-clinicians. The physician reviews each patient's course at regular intervals or as needed for specific situations. Short-term patients, long-term patients, and those undergoing liver transplantation have successfully participated in this type of a program.


CONCLUSIONS
The team approach for management of outpatients with hypertension effectively provides a support system for prompt attention to any questions or medical problems that arise. With such an approach, decreased morbidity and mortality from hypertension and associated cardiovascular disease have been achieved.
Schultz
J F
JF
Division of Hypertension and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 55905.
Sheps
S G
SG
D018660:Blood Pressure Monitoring, Ambulatory; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006123:Group Practice; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000628:therapy*; D008019:Life Style; D016031:Liver Transplantation; D008910:Minnesota; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010358:Patient Participation