Spotlight: Scenic Bluffs
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is thrilled to recognize Scenic Bluffs Community Health Center as a Million Hearts® Health System.
Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers has a mission to deliver accessible, patient-centered primary care, supporting healthier people living in rural communities in Western Wisconsin. It is recognized as a Million Hearts® Health System for its work to manage hypertension with use of self-measured blood pressure monitoring, integrate tobacco cessation in behavioral health services, and offer a variety of physical activity opportunities.
Strategies for Success
Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring
Scenic Bluffs supports patients in managing high blood pressure through implementation of self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SMBP). Health educators conduct weekly check-ins to reinforce proper measurement techniques, document blood pressure measurements, and further engage patients in managing their blood pressure with supplemental lifestyle change education and resources.
Average systolic and diastolic readings, along with the highest and lowest values, are documented in the electronic health record (EHR) to inform treatment plans. Nursing staff also track readings in a centralized spreadsheet to monitor trends over time. Patients return for in-person follow-up visits every three-to-six months until their blood pressure is consistently under control.
Integrating Tobacco Cessation in Behavioral Health Services
Clinical care team members screen all adult patients for tobacco use and include this information in EHRs to drive referrals for tobacco cessation counseling. All behavioral health specialists at Scenic Bluffs are trained in delivering tobacco cessation counseling and motivational interviewing to stop tobacco use. This training includes a focus on the use of the 5 A’s (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange) model to address the behavioral and emotional aspects of tobacco cessation.
Providing Space and Opportunities for Physical Activity
For over 20 years, Scenic Bluffs has made an indoor gym and walking space available for public use. Scenic Bluffs also partners with a local fitness center to refer patients sixty-five years or older to participate in a 9-week program focused on strength, wellness, and cognitive health. Patients seventy to ninety-five years of age have the option of participating in an exercise program tailored for seniors. Scenic Bluffs also reimburses employees for annual fitness center memberships and hosts an annual 5K run/walk to motivate and engage the community to be more active.
Congratulations!
Scenic Bluffs demonstrates how a rural health system can improve the cardiovascular health of its patients, employees, and community. Join Million Hearts® in celebrating Scenic Bluffs Community Health Center’s dedication to preventing cardiovascular events.
Learn more about the Million Hearts® Hospitals & Health Systems Recognition Program and the effective strategies that can be deployed to prevent cardiovascular events.