NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health on January 2, 2024, announced that Gotham Health, Morrisania was recognized by Million Hearts as 2023 Hypertension Control Champions. The site was able to achieve blood pressure control for at least 80% of their adult patients with hypertension. Gotham Health, Morrisania was the only clinic in New York State to receive this prestigious award in 2023.
The Million Hearts Hypertension Control Champions are clinicians, practices, and/or health systems that have achieved exemplar rate of hypertension control. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a leading contributor to heart disease and stroke, affecting millions of adults across the United States. Despite its prevalence, achieving effective control of hypertension remains a challenge for many. NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Morrisania has made blood pressure control a priority for its patients and was able to achieve blood pressure control for at least 80% of its adult patients with hypertension.
This award reflects not just the excellence of our clinical practices, but also our dedication to the broader goal of Million Hearts®: to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes. The CDC’s recognition of our efforts is both an honor and a responsibility to continue leading the way in cardiovascular health.
“Congratulations to the Gotham Health, Morrisania team for their dedication to making high-quality primary care more accessible for our patients in the community,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Gotham Health CEO Michelle Lewis. “Receiving this recognition is a testament to the consistent high-quality care delivered by our clinical and non-clinical staff.”
“NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Morrisania is extremely proud to be selected for this prestigious award. This achievement is a direct reflection of our interdisciplinary care teams, who are tirelessly working each day to enhance care and outcomes for the patients under our services,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Gotham Health, Regional Medical Director, Bronx, Jeremy O’Connor, MD.
To be recognized as 2023 Hypertension Control Champions, NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Morrisania has implemented the following strategies to earn the 2023 Hypertension Control Champions:
Implemented an Integrated Care Team Model: Comprising patients, providers, accountable care manager, patient care associates, nutritionist and clinical pharmacists, the Integrated Care Team aims to establish patient blood pressure control goals, identify risk factors, and address barriers.
Engaged Patients in Collaboration: Working collaboratively with patients to regulate their blood pressure in a variety of ways.
Emphasized Care Plan Development with Patients: The chronic disease team focuses on creating care plans with the patients, emphasizing outreach, engagement, and patient education tactics such as teach-back and visual management. These components form the core of their strategy for managing high blood pressure.
Ensured Universal Access to Blood Pressure Monitoring: Facilitated access to blood pressure monitors for all patients, providing instruction on the accurate measurement and monitoring of blood pressure at home.
Enhanced Medication Affordability and Adherence Support: Implemented 90-day refills for patient medications to reduce the cost and promote adherence.
