An online blood-pressure monitoring program made a major difference in health management for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, new research has found.
The researchers studied more than 350 patients, aged 18 to 85, who had uncontrolled high blood pressure — hypertension. The study participants were randomly assigned to receive ordinary treatment or take part in a monitoring program in conjunction with the American Heart Association’s Heart360.org Web site, which helps people manage their heart health at no cost.
Those who took part in the online program transmitted blood pressure readings via a home computer to their physicians. Pharmacy specialists reviewed the numbers and adjusted the medications of the patients accordingly, the study authors explained.