Henry Ford Health System, through its Express Care Blood Pressure Clinics, is successfully addressing high blood pressure disparities in Black men aged 35-64, a group with higher rates of uncontrolled hypertension. Led by Dr. Denise White Perkins, the initiative focuses on convenient and personalized care.
The program offers same-day blood pressure checks and follow-up services, ensuring quick access to medical advice. This effort is part of a larger strategy to reduce barriers to care, such as lack of time and inconsistent access to healthcare, while fostering trust in underserved communities.
By implementing this targeted initiative, the Henry Ford Health System has achieved significant outcomes, with more than half of the participants successfully bringing their blood pressure under control.
The clinics are designed to be patient-friendly, offering walk-in services without the need for lengthy appointments. This not only encourages patients to seek care but also addresses a significant barrier—limited access to primary care.
In addition to clinical interventions, the initiative incorporates community outreach to educate and engage patients about the risks of uncontrolled hypertension. As Dr. White Perkins noted, creating environments where patients feel comfortable seeking care is key to building long-term relationships and improving health outcomes in communities that are historically underserved.
The program’s success in managing hypertension within this demographic highlights the importance of accessible, culturally sensitive care in reducing racial health disparities.
See “High blood pressure success stories: How Henry Ford Health System is treating hypertension in adults” (August 23, 2024)
