Practices eradicate racial inequalities in blood pressure control

GPs in South London have eradicated a large gap in blood pressure control between white patients and those from a Black or minority ethnic background, after a year-long project.

AT Medics Streatham PCN in Lambeth found that among their patients under 80 diagnosed with hypertension, there was a 12% inequality gap in blood pressure control, with 67% of white patients and 55% of black patients treated to target.

The two practices in the PCN have 45,000 patients, with around 3,100 diagnosed with hypertension. They set up a centralised recall system and made use of practice pharmacists and healthcare assistants to provide guidance, education around self-care, lifestyle and medicines.

Dr Tarek Radwan, GP director said: ‘This project has delivered incredible results, and this is all down to the dedication of our amazing team, especially our administrators, healthcare assistants and pharmacists.

"The last 12 months have proved that we can not just reduce but actually eradicate health inequalities and raise the quality of care for everyone at the same time.

"I know the difference this will make to our local communities, and it really shows what is possible with a highly motivated multidisciplinary team."

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Source: Pulse, 3 May 2023