Health communication for effective management: A case for hypertension

Abstract

Effective health communication is vital in enhancing patient comprehension, knowledge, medication adherence and treatment outcomes in a chronic condition like hypertension. This review presents the various forms of health communication, which are effective in enhancing hypertension related knowledge and management. Various factors related to reaching out to the patient through health communication are identified in the current review. The studies related to methods and strategies for improving hypertension related health communication have been highlighted. The review clearly suggests that health communication that considers the biopsychosocial context of the patient, optimizes health outcomes in a chronic illness like hypertension. Research indicated the efficacy of a holistic approach tailored in accordance with models advocated by Health Psychology such as Health Belief Model, Trans theoretical Model of Behavioural Change or Social Cognitive Theory are brought to light. The review compared different methods of health communication in reaching out to patients. These studies provided adequate evidence that since treatment of primary hypertension involves lifestyle changes, communication that addresses the biopsychosocial aspects brings the desirable results.