Overview
The World Health Organization estimates sub-optimal blood pressure to be the leading risk factor for mortality in developed countries. One in four adult Canadians have hypertension and the lifetime risk for developing hypertension is over 90%. Although hypertension is one of the most readily preventable causes of death and disability, prior to CHEP, sub-optimal detection, management, and follow-up of hypertension was extensive in Canada and there were immense practice ‘gaps’ in the management of hypertension.
WHAT IS KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) defines knowledge translation as “the exchange, synthesis, and ethically-sound application of knowledge – within a complex set of interactions among researchers and users – to accelerate the capture of the benefits of research for Canadians through improved health, more effective services and products, and a strengthened health care system.” CHEP uses annually updated health care management recommendations developed by researchers and health professionals to assist the understanding of primary health practitioners about hypertension and thus improve the delivery of services to patients, ultimately improving the health of Canadians.
HOW DOES CHEP OPERATE?
CHEP is operated by a Steering Committee comprised of healthcare, government, and non-governmental organizations. The Steering Committee oversees an Executive Committee which guides the daily functioning of the program. CHEP is funded directly and indirectly by the Public Health Agency of Canada. CHEP is indirectly funded by the Canadian Hypertension Society and Blood Pressure Canada. CHEP also receives funding from many corporate partners.
