The Rhode Island Department of Health Diabetes and Cardiovascular Health (RIDCH) Program aims to prevent and reduce death and disability due to diabetes, heart disease and stroke using several strategies, including the implementation of evidence-based health promotion programming in communities across Rhode Island. The Healthy Heart Ambassador Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring (HHA BPSM) program is an evidence-based lifestyle change program of the YMCA USA (Y-USA). In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Y-USA trains state and local health officials across the country in program implementation and leader training. Eligibility of HHA BPSM participants: 1. 18+ years old 2. Have not had a heart attack or other cardiac event within the past 6 months 3. Have been told that they have high blood pressure and/or are on anti-hypertensive medication 4. Do not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias 5. Do not have and are not at risk for lymphedema 6. Interested and ready to self-monitor their blood pressure During the four (4) month HHA BPSM program implementation period, participants will: 1. Complete an enrollment session to complete paperwork and be trained in BPSM. 2. Meet one-on-one with a program facilitator twice monthly for ten (10) minutes during the facilitator’s “Office Hours” to check in and take blood pressure readings. 3. Attend four (4) monthly nutrition seminars led by program facilitator. 4. Monitor and record their own blood pressure at least twice monthly at home. The following materials are required for program implementation and will be provided by the RIDCH program: 1. Enrollment/registration form 2. Readiness for change screening tool 3. Hypertensive crisis protocol 4. Blood pressure and attendance tracking form for participant 6. Pre- and post-surveys for participants 7. Loan agreement templates 8. Standardized nutrition seminar PowerPoints
