Improving Hypertension Control in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Launched by DUKE UNIVERSITY · Feb 23, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding and improving care for Black patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who also have high blood pressure, known as hypertension. Researchers are concerned that these patients face unique challenges that make it harder for them to manage both their RA and hypertension, which can lead to serious heart problems. The goal of the study is to identify these challenges by interviewing Black RA patients, their doctors, and other healthcare providers. By learning more about the barriers they face, the researchers hope to create a program that helps Black RA patients take a more active role in managing their hypertension and improves communication between their healthcare providers.

To participate in this study, individuals must be 18 years or older, identify as Black or African American, and have both uncontrolled hypertension and a history of rheumatoid arthritis. They should also receive care from both primary care and rheumatology services at Duke Health System. Participants will be asked to share their experiences related to getting care for their hypertension and RA. This will help the researchers develop strategies to improve care and ultimately reduce health disparities for Black patients with these conditions. The study is not yet recruiting, but it aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years old or older
• • Uncontrolled hypertension
• • History of rheumatoid arthritis
• • Receive both primary care and rheumatology care from Duke Health System
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Age less than 18 years old
• • Healthy volunteers without rheumatoid arthritis and hypertension
• • Do not receive both primary care and rheumatology care from Duke Health System
• • Cognitive impairment with lack the capacity to consent to study participation
• • Pregnant women
• • Prisoners