A clinical improvement project undertaken by CVS has proven successful in enhancing hypertension screening for older cats, leading to a significant increase in blood pressure checks. Over the span of 12 months, more than 105 first opinion small animal practices within the CVS group actively participated in the initiative with the primary goal of early identification of hypertension.
International Society of Feline Medicine guidelines recommend annual blood pressure checks for cats starting from the age of seven. Undiagnosed hypertension in cats can lead to various disorders affecting the eyes, brain, heart, and kidneys.
The CVS clinical improvement project initially assessed the effectiveness of its first opinion practices in screening for hypertension. The findings revealed that less than 2% of cats above seven were receiving the recommended annual blood pressure check. Barriers identified included issues related to equipment availability, time constraints, and the need to remember to discuss these checks with clients.
To address these challenges, two individuals at each of the 105 participating sites were designated to lead the focus on hypertension screening. A comprehensive set of resources was developed to assist the entire team in improving annual blood pressure check rates. Training sessions, including three in-person CPD days featuring feline specialists Sarah Caney and Samantha Taylor and hosted in collaboration with Ceva, were also conducted.
A year after the nationwide launch of the project, participating CVS practices witnessed a remarkable increase of 110% in the number of blood pressure checks conducted. The statistics indicated an additional 5,984 blood pressure tests were performed year on year. Some practices were able to establish systems allowing them to conduct more than 40 blood pressure checks each month.
Furthermore, the number of cats prescribed amlodipine, a first-choice medication for treating hypertension in cats, saw a substantial increase of 303 patients year on year. This suggests that a larger number of cats were successfully diagnosed with hypertension.
Kate Allgood, hub clinical lead at CVS, spearheaded the hypertension clinical improvement project. She emphasized the significant benefits of treating hypertension, stating that early detection through annual blood pressure checks can prevent associated complications and conditions, ensuring the well-being of senior feline patients.
Allgood noted that while increasing blood pressure screening presented challenges, the focused approach allowed practices the time and space to recognize its importance. The project facilitated the identification and implementation of systems to simplify the process of identifying at-risk patients, discussing concerns with clients, and conducting these checks seamlessly.
She praised the CVS practices for their outstanding contributions to the project and expressed anticipation for future achievements in feline healthcare. The clinical structure established, along with accessible materials and support, has empowered practices to make impactful changes that collectively contribute to the well-being of senior cats.
