Abstract for: A systems perspective on multisector partnerships for hypertension control

Hypertension is a prevalent and costly public health issue. According to November 2017 blood pressure guidelines, 46% of US adults have hypertension. Hypertension management has traditionally been addressed in clinical settings, but few adults with hypertension are successfully managing their condition. Community-clinical partnerships to facilitate medication adherence and lifestyle changes are promising approaches to improving population-level blood pressure control. This study explores partnerships for blood pressure control in Washington State from an endogenous feedback perspective. There were 41 semi-structured interviews conducted with 45 staff from four health-related sectors: clinics, community-based organizations (CBOs), pharmacies, and community health workers (CHWs). Participants were asked about their partnerships to support blood pressure control. Interviews have been conducted, transcribed, and coded. Further analysis will yield a causal loop diagram depicting barriers, facilitators, delays, and important considerations regarding partnering across sectors for hypertension control.