A Clinical Decision Support Questionnaire to Identify Obstacles to Blood Pressure Control

Gabriel S. Tajeu, DrPH, MPH
University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project Goals and Relevance

Hypertension, affecting nearly half of U.S. adults, is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Despite effective treatments, only 43.7% of U.S. adults with hypertension had controlled blood pressure (BP) as of 2017–2018.This project develops a clinical decision support (CDS) questionnaire to help healthcare providers identify obstacles to blood-pressure control during routine clinical encounters, particularly for patients facing barriers related to health literacy, access, or adherence.

Intervention/Approach

The team uses key-informant interviews and focus groups with patients and clinicians to co-design the questionnaire, which will be piloted in primary-care clinics. The tool will capture both clinical and non-clinical determinants of hypertension control—such as medication cost, appointment access, and stress.

Expected Outcomes

• Practical Tool for Clinics: A validated CDS questionnaire ready for EMR integration.
• Improved Patient Outcomes: Enhanced blood-pressure management through individualized care.
• Expanded Insights on Patient Obstacles: Greater understanding of logistical obstacles and external challenges affecting hypertension control.

Participation Information

Eligibility Criteria:

Eligible participants include patients aged 20 years or older living with uncontrolled blood pressure at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services

Practical Tips for Everyday Health

Not part of the study or don’t meet eligibility criteria? You can still take steps to manage your blood pressure and support your overall well-being.
Small actions can make a big difference.

Know Your Numbers
Get regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Tracking your numbers helps you and your healthcare team spot changes early and take action to stay in a healthy range.

Communicate with Providers
Talk with your healthcare team about your blood pressure goals, medications, and lifestyle changes. Open communication helps you create a care plan that fits your life.

Prioritize Your Health
Focus on one or two changes that matter most to you, like reducing salt, increasing physical activity, or managing stress. Every step you take supports better blood pressure control.

Healthy habits are worth sharing, pass these tips along and encourage others to take charge of their heart health, too.