EMC Hypertension Self-Management Trial
Program Objectives
This program aims to increase employee engagement in their health, and improve blood pressure control. As a result of a program at EMC, we will look at the impact on healthcare utilization and costs, employee engagement and confidence in their ability to manage their health, and overall satisfaction.
Drivers
Of the 65 million Americans with hypertension, almost 70% do not have adequate blood pressure control. Hypertension is a preventable cause of stroke and other cardiac complications. It is estimated that poor control of hypertension contributes over $40 billion in direct healthcare costs, and generates over 17 million physician office visits annually.
Program Overview
Employees from a large Massachusetts-based employer (EMC Corporation), with a diagnosis of hypertension or pre-hypertension are being recruited to participate in a 6 month study. Employees randomized for intervention are using a home blood pressure monitor that stores and transmits data, and an Internet-based self-management system. The self-management system combines personalized data-driven feedback and messaging, and educational content. In addition, those using the website will be able to view their blood pressure data, and save or send the data to their healthcare provider.
Approximately 400 employees are being recruited at selected EMC locations through 2008. Initial reports from the program indicate very high engagement levels. On average, employees are sending in 3 readings per week.
The Center for Connected Health is now offering a Hypertension/Diabetes self-management monitoring service, named SmartBeat, to self-insured employers. For more information on this service, please click here.
 “Tracking my results on the website is very helpful and convenient. The ability to track readings and the feedback you receive with the website are really the keys to success for me,” said Scott Cote, an EMC software engineer (above). “The SmartBeat program is a great incentive for employees and I think it is one of the best benefits EMC offers to help make employees healthier.” |