Implementation and evaluation of a worksite pilot to improve blood pressure control

July 2008, the Maine CDC/DHHS Cardiovascular Health Program (MCVHP) began implementation and evaluation of a worksite pilot to improve the prevention, detection and control of high blood pressure in two small, rural, manufacturing worksites. The MCVHP partnered with the Wellness Council of Maine to recruit two worksites underrepresented in public health efforts, yet with demonstrated success with worksite wellness. A participatory approach was used to develop and evaluate interventions, which included the following: 1. Reliable, calibrated, appropriately sized electronic blood pressure measurement equipment available at the worksite; 2. Staff trained in proper blood pressure measurement and control; and 3. Promotion of the availability of blood pressure monitoring for all employees, especially those at-risk for or with high blood pressure. The interventions contributed to a cultural shift in which all employees were encouraged to know their blood pressure numbers and the importance of blood pressure control through: 1. Regular health checkups from their primary care provider; 2. Participation in Health Risk Appraisals provided by the worksite; or 3. Worksite staff trained in proper blood pressure measurement.

To evaluate the interventions, the MCVHP used: 1. Key informant interviews with worksite staff regarding environmental changes made and facilitators and barriers to these changes. 2. Paper-based surveys with worksite employees. Areas of focus were (i) knowledge of blood pressure numbers/status, (ii) actions to control high blood pressure, and (iii) efficacy in high blood pressure self-management. This presentation will discuss the worksite pilot, evaluation findings and implications for future worksite blood pressure interventions.