Community Focus

Providence Health Plan and the American Heart Association Target Cardiovascular Health in Local Communities

11 September 2024

More than 3,000 students, families and staff of Portland Opportunities and Industrialization Center (POIC) are better able to combat high blood pressure thanks to the new Embracing Community Care Initiative led by the American Heart Association through support from Providence Health Plan. POIC is the first organization to receive assistance setting up self-measured blood pressure (SMBP) programs.

Embracing Community Care focuses on underserved communities where health disparities are most pronounced, aiming to improve access to vital health resources and reduce barriers to care.

The blood pressure program at POIC deploys blood pressure measurement kits which include a clinically validated blood pressure device and cuff, an instruction booklet that outlines how to properly take blood pressure readings, information on what readings mean and steps individuals can take to move their blood pressure numbers into a healthier range. Like a library, the kits are available on a loaner basis to POIC staff and students and empower individuals to measure and track their blood pressure readings.

"The expansion of our collaboration with the American Heart Association reinforces Providence Health Plan's commitment to the communities we serve,” said Don Antonucci, president and CEO, Providence Health Plan and volunteer board member, American Heart Association, Western States.  “By enhancing access to health monitoring tools and resources, we're taking concrete steps to address health disparities and empower individuals to take control of their health. This initiative is a testament to our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve optimal health, regardless of their background or circumstances."

"The health challenges we're addressing through this expanded initiative are significant and persistent,” said Laurel Soot, M.D., FACS, chief medical officer, Providence Health Plan and volunteer board member, American Heart Association, Oregon and Southwest Washington.  “One-third of Oregonians have high blood pressure, with Black and Hispanic individuals facing disproportionately higher risks. By combining proven approaches with strong community engagement, we're striving to create meaningful, lasting improvements in cardiovascular health across the Pacific Northwest. This work is directly connected to our objectives around Health For All - to not just treat illness, but to actively promote health equity and wellness in all the communities we serve."

Over the next three years, the collaboration will introduce self-measured blood pressure programs in twenty Oregon and Washington community organizations and clinics in areas where they're most needed. These programs aim to provide essential health monitoring tools and education to communities that have historically faced challenges in accessing regular health services.

The Embracing Community Care initiative will continue to expand in the coming months. Both Providence Health Plan and the American Heart Association are optimistic about the potential to contribute to improving chronic health issues throughout the region.

In addition to Embracing Community Care, Providence Health Plan and the American Heart Association are also moving forward with programs to help address food insecurity. “Stocking Healthy Pantries,” an education-based food drive initiative will also get underway in 2024 and throughout the next year.