Monica Padilla

I’m honored to receive the Incentive Grant this year to continue to show the impact pharmacists can make in patients’ care. This grant will allow me to further look at barriers that impact older patients not to reach their blood pressure goals. It can be difficult to reach blood pressure per guidelines in this population due to physiological changes, polypharmacy, and extensive comorbidities.

Inspired by UCOP’s quality improvement focus on blood pressure control, my research seeks to address one of the most prevalent and preventable causes of cardiovascular disease in older adults. Hypertension affects more than 70% of U.S. adults aged 60 and older, yet fewer than half achieve control below 140/90 mm Hg. By implementing pharmacist-led visits and interventions, I aim to demonstrate that pharmacists can play a pivotal role in improving blood pressure management and reducing cardiovascular risks in the Senior Health Center population.

I’m genuinely excited that this project allows me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults while showcasing the value of pharmacists in patient centered care. The Incentive Grant motivates me to keep advancing clinical pharmacy practice and to uncover ways we can better support patients in achieving their blood pressure goals.