A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2024 highlights that up to 74% of patients with treatment-resistant high blood pressure, including those with chronic kidney disease, were able to bring their blood pressure below 140/90 mm Hg within 12 months. This was achieved through a remote monitoring system combined with pharmacist-led telehealth interventions. Two-thirds of the participants had regular interactions with pharmacists, who co-managed blood pressure adjustments and addressed medication adherence, which contributed to improved outcomes and fewer hospitalizations.

The study, conducted in central and northeast Pennsylvania, used the ConnectedCare365 Hypertension Management program. Patients were enrolled through a centralized monitoring system, which provided Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure monitoring devices that transmitted data to a central hub. Pharmacists and physicians collaborated on medication adjustments and patient management, using telehealth platforms for real-time care. By the end of the study, 67% of participants had achieved blood pressure control at six months, and 74% had reached control by 12 months. Pharmacist involvement was associated with a steady decline in systolic blood pressure, and fewer hospitalizations were reported.

The study included 205 participants, with an average age of 62, most of whom were non-Hispanic white adults. Around half of the patients had chronic kidney disease. The research demonstrated the program’s effectiveness in improving hypertension control through a collaborative, team-based approach. However, the findings are considered preliminary and have not yet undergone peer review. The program’s emphasis on pharmacist involvement and remote monitoring suggests a promising model for managing high-risk patients with resistant hypertension.

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A clinical trial supported by NIH found that pomalidomide, a drug previously used for bone marrow cancer and Kaposi sarcoma, is a promising treatment for Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT). Patients taking pomalidomide experienced a significant reduction in nosebleeds, required fewer blood transfusions, and reported improved quality of life. These findings offer hope for people with HHT, a rare genetic disorder that causes excessive bleeding. While more research is needed, pomalidomide has shown promise as a safe and effective treatment option.

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The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released updated guidance for hospitals interested in becoming rural emergency hospitals (REHs). This guidance provides details on the conditions of participation and the conversion process for eligible hospitals.

REHs are a new provider type established to address concerns about rural hospital closures and access to care in rural communities. The REH designation offers benefits such as an additional 5% payment over the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System rate.

To be eligible for the REH designation, hospitals must meet specific requirements, including having a transfer agreement with a trauma center and providing only emergency department services, observation care, and limited outpatient medical services.

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The study by Hauspurg et al. highlights the significant prevalence of persistent hypertension in postpartum women and the associated risk of emergency department visits and hospital readmissions. The researchers found that over 80% of patients had ongoing blood pressure control problems after discharge, with 14% progressing to severe hypertension. This emphasizes the need for improved management strategies, including remote monitoring and earlier intervention. The study also revealed disparities in the development of severe hypertension based on factors such as race, insurance status, and delivery method. These findings underscore the importance of addressing social determinants of health and tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of different populations.

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