Guidelines for Enhancing Access to Hypertension Treatment Through the Village Health Volunteers’ Medication Delivery System: The Role of Community Nurses

Abstract

Hypertension is a growing public health concern both globally and in Thailand. Patients with hypertension often develop complications affecting the cardiovascular system, brain, and eyes, and so on, which contribute to high mortality rates. Key factors leading to these complications often result from daily lifestyle behaviors, non-adherence to prescribed medications, self-discontinuation of treatment, missed follow-up appointments due to travel limitations, or insufficient guidance from physicians or healthcare personnel. The role of community nurses is to ensure that patients receive medications according to medical treatment plans at primary care facilities, following the authorized drug and diagnosis lists for professional nurses and nurse practitioners managing primary care. However, with the increasing number of patients and various barriers limiting access to care, many patients fail to receive continuous medication, thereby increasing their risk of complications. Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) play an essential role in managing hypertensive patients within the community, including delivering medications delegated by primary care units under the supervision of community nurses. This collaborative approach aims to ensure continuous and effective treatment for hypertensive patients in the community, reducing the risk of complications.