Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring Action Steps for Public Health Practitioners

This publication provides action steps and resources for public health practitioners on self-measured blood pressure monitoring and is not meant to represent clinical recommendations or guidelines. It includes: A description of the burden of hypertension; A summary of the scientific evidence establishing the significance and effectiveness of SMBP plus additional support; A definition and explanation of additional support strategies for SMBP; Types and costs of home blood pressure monitors used for SMBP; Available cost data for SMBP plus additional support interventions; Health insurance coverage for SMBP; Action steps for public health practitioners on the implementation of SMBP plus additional support. This publication provides action steps for public health practitioners to facilitate the implementation of SMBP plus additional support in five key areas: understanding the environment, working with payers and purchasers, working with health care providers, spreading the word to the public, and monitoring/assessment of SMBP plus additional support implementation. For each area, relevant actions are given that can facilitate the implementation of SMBP plus additional support. A subsequent list of related electronic resources is also provided to assist with these actions, along with appendices that describe state-specific Medicaid coverage for blood pressure monitors and additional support as well as the top five insurance plans by market share in each state.