A Heart for Better Health: UT Health San Antonio Earns Fifth Consecutive National Recognition

UT Health San Antonio's Primary Care Centers have once again earned Target: BP Gold+ recognition from the American Heart Association and American Medical Association, reflecting their continued commitment to helping patients manage high blood pressure and reduce their risk of serious health complications.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Because it often develops without noticeable symptoms, many people may not realize their blood pressure is elevated until complications occur.

Through preventive screenings, personalized treatment plans and ongoing support, UT Health San Antonio's primary care teams help patients take control of their blood pressure and protect their long-term health.

Recognizing a commitment to quality care

The Target: BP initiative recognizes health care organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving blood pressure control through evidence-based practices and patient engagement. The Gold+ designation recognizes organizations that achieve blood pressure control among at least 70% of their adult patients with hypertension.

"This recognition reflects the dedication of our primary care teams to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care," said Ramon Cancino, MD, MBA, MS, executive director of UT Health San Antonio Primary Care. "Managing high blood pressure requires more than a single appointment. It takes ongoing communication, coordinated care and a shared commitment to helping patients achieve better health outcomes."

Prevention starts with primary care

Because high blood pressure often has no warning signs, routine primary care visits are essential for early detection and management.

At UT Health San Antonio, providers are also using technology to help patients manage their blood pressure between appointments. Through Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) for hypertension, patients can use Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure cuffs that transmit readings directly to MyChart, giving their care teams a more complete picture of blood pressure trends over time.

"Remote Patient Monitoring allows us to identify changes in a patient's blood pressure earlier and make more personalized, timely adjustments to their treatment," said Joyce Yuen, DO, medical director at UT Health Shavano. "It also empowers patients to take a more active role in managing their health, with the potential to reduce unnecessary clinic and emergency room visits."

For patients diagnosed with hypertension, successful management often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication when appropriate and regular monitoring.

"Every patient's health needs and circumstances are different, which is why an individualized approach to managing blood pressure is so important," said Cordelia Moscrip, MD, medical director at UT Health Fountainhead, Suite 150. "We work closely with patients to develop realistic treatment plans, address barriers to managing their condition and support them in making sustainable changes that improve their overall health."

Building lasting relationships with patients is another important part of effective blood pressure management.

"Managing high blood pressure is an ongoing process, and having an established relationship with a primary care provider can make a meaningful difference," said Chandana Tripathy, MD, medical director at UT Health Fountainhead West, Suite 100. "By regularly monitoring our patients' progress and adjusting their care as needed, we can help them stay on track and lower their risk of complications such as heart attack and stroke."

A continued commitment to better health

As Patient-Centered Medical Homes, UT Health San Antonio's Primary Care Centers emphasize comprehensive, coordinated care that supports patients through every stage of life.

Five consecutive years of Target: BP Gold+ recognition reflect a sustained commitment to prevention, chronic disease management and helping patients achieve healthier futures.

Take the first step toward better heart health. Schedule an appointment with a UT Health San Antonio primary care provider at UTHealthCare.org/PrimaryCare.

To learn more about the Target: BP initiative, visit TargetBP.org.