The American Heart Association and American Medical Association presented Target: BP Awards to all 54 Kettering Physician Network Primary Care clinic locations for their commitment to accurate blood pressure measurement and improving blood pressure control rates for patients.
“Kettering Physician Network’s Primary Care team is pleased to receive this recognition, as it highlights our ongoing commitment to delivering the highest quality of care,” said Ward Blair, MD, medical director for Kettering Physician Network Primary Care service line. “With over 60 practices and nearly 300 primary care providers throughout our expansive Greater Dayton service area, we are proud to serve the community.”
This recognition is part of the Target: BP™ initiative which helps healthcare organizations improve uncontrolled blood pressure rates through an evidence-based quality improvement program, and recognizes organizations committed to improving BP control.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and preventable death in the U.S. Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. are living with hypertension.
Unfortunately, less than half of them have their BP under control, making both diagnosis and effective management critical. In the U.S., heart disease and stroke are the first and fifth most common causes of death, respectively, and stroke is a leading cause of disability.
“By committing to helping more people in the Miami Valley control their blood pressure and reduce their risks for future heart disease and stroke, Kettering Health is taking a key step to helping more people live longer, healthier lives,” said Audrey Starr, Executive Director of the American Heart Association in Dayton. “Kettering Health’s participation in the Target: BP initiative shows its dedication to turning clinical guidelines into lifelines for patients and their families.”