Fourteen studies were identified, including eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Many of the studies focused on poor, urban African Americans. Significant improvements
in controlling blood pressure were reported in seven of the eight RCTs. Several studies
reported significant improvements in participants’ self-management behaviors, including
appointment keeping and adherence to antihypertensive medications. Four studies
reported positive changes in healthcare utilization and in systems outcomes. Two of the
RCTs showed significant improvements in other patient outcomes, such as changes in
heart mass and risk of CVD.