The University of Florida Health has been chosen by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to lead a program aimed at closing the health disparity gap in certain Jacksonville communities. This initiative, known as the Hypertension Pharmacists’ Program, will connect patients with community pharmacists to help manage high blood pressure. The program is set to launch this summer and will increase access to blood pressure care for medically underserved, primarily Black communities in the city.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects almost half of American adults. It is a significant health issue in the community, as highlighted in the triannual Community Health Needs Assessment. The goal of this program is to improve control of the disease by integrating clinical pharmacists into a patient’s primary care team. This initiative is being coordinated by the UF Health Jacksonville Office of Community Engagement in partnership with the UF Health Total Care Clinic – Jacksonville, the UF College of Pharmacy, and Panama Pharmacy. Patients will have the opportunity to see a specialized pharmacist at a community pharmacy for personalized care and education.
According to Ann-Marie Knight, Vice President of Community Engagement for UF Health Jacksonville, hypertension is a significant health issue in the community. By offering health resources through a collaborative effort like this program, patients will have access to better care and support throughout their treatment journey.
