Management of hypertension in general practice: A qualitative needs assessment of Australian GPs

Background: This study aimed to identify strategies to improve the management of hypertension in general practice.

Methods: Four focus groups (25 general practitioners and general practice registrars) were conducted, recorded and transcribed. Common emerging themes were analysed by an iterative thematic process.

Results: Four main themes were identified: uncertainty about blood pressure measurement, achieving consensus in practice, accommodating patient differences and addressing systematic barriers. General practitioners want a more standardised approach to measuring and interpreting blood pressure with consistent, valid readings taken on one device that accurately measures patients blood pressure in the ‘real world’. General practitioners want to be upskilled in specific areas related to hypertension management.

Discussion: To facilitate improvements in blood pressure management, the most pressing needs of this group of GPs is to reduce the uncertainty surrounding the measurement and interpretation of blood pressure readings. This study has identified that sections of existing hypertension guidelines need to be reviewed and implemented.