Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on hypertension care and research in the US |
Dear Colleagues,
The University of Utah Translational Hypertension Symposium developed this rapid survey to understand the immediate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on hypertension care and research. We have received reports from several colleagues stating that out-patient visits for routine chronic conditions, such as hypertension have been suspended, with different approaches to management, including telehealth care. We understand that these measures are part of controlling the current emergency and prioritizing health services.
The purpose of this research study is to capture the details and consequences of these decisions. We are doing this study in order to better understand how the diverse settings represented have handled decisions on the delivery of hypertension treatment and diagnostic services, and for services postponed, what plans are being prepared to resume routine chronic condition care. We intend to discuss the findings at the upcoming virtual University of Utah Translational Hypertension Symposium panel discussion on Thursday, October 8th, 2020 and to report our findings in an academic journal. Based on the available evidence and insights from our collaborators’ experiences, we aim to formulate guidance for the present pandemic, if it endures, and also for other emergencies we may encounter in the future. This survey focuses on the immediate decisions taken that affect hypertension care and is structured to allow you to provide as much nuanced information as possible. We will appreciate receiving any information that you are able to provide. We encourage you to answer all the questions to the best of your knowledge considering the setting you work in and citing references, public documents or websites when available.
If you agree, you will participate by completing an anonymous survey that has, at most, 25 questions and it may take you approximately 15 minutes to complete it. If you have any questions about the survey, please contact april.mohanty@utah.edu. Your participation is completely voluntary. You may choose not to answer a question or are free to withdraw consent and discontinue participation. There are no known risks associated with participating in this study. You may experience a benefit in the form of increased insight and awareness into your research practices and support needs. Contact the Institutional Review Board (IRB) if you have questions regarding your rights as a research participant. Also, contact the IRB if you have questions, complaints or concerns which you do not feel you can discuss with the investigator. The University of Utah IRB may be reached by phone at (801) 581-3655 or by e-mail at irb@hsc.utah.edu. By completing the anonymous survey, you are giving your consent to participate in this research.
Thank you for your willingness to participate!
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