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Medscape
08-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Could EMR Alerts Boost Hypertension Detection?
Could a simple advisory or alert in the electronic medical record (EMR) be the key to more frequent diagnosis and effective treatment of high blood pressure (BP)? While it could help, some physicians say it's not sufficient to solve the persistent problem of hypertension. However, such alerts could be part of an effective approach to catching more cases of hypertension and helping people manage their high BP. Tackling High BP Hypertension is well-known as a 'silent killer.' Left untreated, it raises the risk for heart attack, stroke, and other life-threatening events without causing any symptoms. Hypertension is also a widespread problem. The CDC estimates that about 120 million adults in the US have high BP, defined as having a systolic BP higher than 130 mm Hg or a diastolic BP greater than 80 mm Hg (or taking medication to lower their BP). However, only about 1 in 4 adults with high BP actually have their BP under control. According to the results of a recent quality improvement study in JAMA Network Open , using technology to prompt team-based care can improve primary care hypertension control and diagnosis in the ambulatory setting. The researchers tested an intervention consisting of a high BP advisory in the EMR, along with team training, audit, and feedback. If an elevated BP reading (systolic BP ≥ 140 mm Hg or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mm Hg) was entered into the EMR, the medical assistant received an advisory to recheck the patient's BP. If the BP continued to be elevated, the EMR prompted a clinician-facing advisory, along with an order panel link. 'This study demonstrates that a paired human-technology intervention focused on team-based care and EMR integration is a fruitful approach to improving population health metrics,' the authors wrote. 'Anything that is done to alert the clinician is appropriate because of clinical inertia,' said Luke Laffin, MD, co-director of the Cleveland Clinic's Center for Blood Pressure Disorders in Cleveland, Ohio. 'There's a lot of clinical inertia in hypertension care. It breaks that inertia. I'm not surprised that this intervention works.' The Value of an Alert The idea of incorporating this type of alert into the EMR system is feasible, according to Brian Barr, MD, cardiologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center and assistant professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore. 'Most modern EMRs — such as Epic, Cerner, Athenahealth, and others — are equipped with customizable clinical support tools that allow for automated reminders, alerts, and health maintenance prompts,' Barr said, adding that configurations could allow for notifications for missing BP readings or lack of documentation of BP within a particular time period. Alerts could also be quite useful to busy primary care physicians who see patients for a multitude of reasons. 'It's a reminder not to get distracted by the chief complaint syndrome,' said Brent Smith, MD, a family physician in Greenville, Mississippi and member of the board of directors for the American Academy of Family Physicians. 'It forces us not to overlook hypertension when there are other things that brought them into the doctor's office.' Using this type of tool could also identify patients with multiple elevated BP readings but no formal hypertension diagnosis, said Barr. That information could also allow physicians to follow patients more closely and confirm elevated BP in multiple settings — not just in the office, according to Blair Suter, MD, cardiologist with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. 'It could be the canary in the coal mine,' he said. 'It could really be the sign of things to come or to progress to.' However, healthcare organizations must also be cautious about the possibility of contributing to electronic health record alert fatigue and instead find a balance that allows the use of technology to improve patient care without increasing the alert burden on clinicians. The authors of the study also acknowledged that some clinic managers had sustainability concerns about the time needed for BP rechecks. '[A]fter the rollout, some clinics piloted scheduling patients 10 minutes ahead of the clinician visit to increase previsit time for [medical assistants] to manage this and other population health initiatives,' they wrote. 'I think that rather than just having alerts, where people tend to get alarm fatigue, it might be more useful to focus on how we're collecting the data and how reliable it is and how much of a true reflection it is of the patient's true blood pressure when they're not in the office,' said Jeremy Bock, MD, interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialist at VHC Health in Arlington, Virginia. At-Home Monitoring Indeed, even if alerts do help, the challenge of getting patients to monitor their BP regularly at home does persist. At-home checks can seem nonurgent to them, especially if they are already taking an antihypertensive medication and feel fine. Kristen Trom, DO, family physician with Inspira Health in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, said that her organization's EMR uses an alert, but it's still a challenge to get patients to monitor their BP at home and take their medication. 'Resistance to starting medication can be a major challenge,' she said. 'Many of these patients have never been on medication before and prefer not to start.' 'It's trying to find that balance between being nonintrusive and also being part of their daily routine,' said Laffin. Physicians may need to spend more time emphasizing the importance of at-home BP monitoring and ensure patients know how to do it correctly. Prevention efforts can be time-consuming, noted Bock, but they can also improve patient-provider relationships and patient satisfaction. One important element of that process is reminding patients to use a validated BP cuff. Suter recommends directing patients to the website which is also suggested by the American Heart Association. Future Possibilities Time is often the biggest impediment for primary care providers. Eventually EMRs may be configured — along with AI — to incorporate the most effective cues and advisories, and then filter the information that would be most helpful for the physician, Smith said. 'It is getting better, and it has potential for the future,' he said. Barr added that other efforts could bolster such improvements. For example, clinic-level interventions also play a major role. 'Standardized blood pressure measurement protocols, routine use of home blood pressure monitoring, automated follow-up scheduling, and nurse-led hypertension visits can all support timely diagnosis and management,' Barr said. 'Engaging patients through portal alerts, educational messaging, and self-reported blood pressure entries adds another layer of protective care. Together, these strategies help close care gaps and support earlier identification and treatment of hypertension, ultimately improving long-term cardiovascular outcomes.'
Forbes
06-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
10 High-Paying Jobs In Healthcare That Require No Degree
Healthcare offers promising high-paying jobs that don't require a degree. getty If you're wondering whether the healthcare sector offers promising high-paying jobs that don't require a degree, it does. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare is projected to grow 13% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth, combined with the need to replace retiring workers, is expected to create 1.9 million job openings each year. While many positions require advanced degrees, a number of high-paying jobs in healthcare require only a high school diploma or GED combined with specific certifications. These accessible medical roles offer exciting career opportunities that provide job security, competitive salaries and a sense of fulfillment in helping others. Let's explore 10 high-paying jobs in healthcare offering strong earning potential while allowing you to make a difference in people's lives. Medical assistants work with physicians in clinics and doctors' offices, performing clinical and administrative duties. They measure vital signs, schedule appointments, prepare patients for exams, and assist with basic procedures. High school diploma or GED required Medical assistant certification is preferred but not always mandatory Training programs typically take 9-12 months to complete $44,200; up to $57,830 Complete a training program at a community college or vocational school, obtain certification through organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), and gain hands-on experience through externships or entry-level positions. Detail-oriented individuals who enjoy patient interaction and can balance clinical and administrative responsibilities. Medical assisting offers an excellent starting point for those interested in healthcare fundamentals and who possess compassion combined with organizational skills. 2. Pharmacy Technician What is a Pharmacy Technician? Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by helping prepare and dispense medications. They count pills, label prescriptions, process insurance claims, and manage inventory in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. High school diploma or GED required Certification typically required Most states mandate certification through PTCB or NHA Training programs typically take 3-12 months Median Annual Salary $43,460; up to $59,450 How to Get a Job Complete a pharmacy technician training program, obtain certification, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Many retail pharmacies offer on-the-job training programs. Who Should Consider This Career People with strong mathematical aptitude and precision who can thrive in structured environments. The role requires people with excellent soft skills like communication and the ability to stay focused while performing detailed tasks in retail and clinical settings. 3. Medical Administrative Assistant What is a Medical Administrative Assistant? Medical administrative assistants manage the front-office operations of healthcare facilities. They schedule appointments, maintain patient records, handle billing and insurance, and serve as the first point of contact for patients. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required Certification as Medical Administrative Assistant preferred Familiarity with medical terminology and electronic health record systems beneficial Training programs typically take 3-9 months Median Annual Salary $42,200; up to $57,830 How to Get a Job Complete a certificate program in medical office administration, obtain certification through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association, and develop proficiency with healthcare-specific software. Who Should Consider This Career Strong communicators who excel at multitasking and prefer administrative work to caring for patients. The position is ideal for individuals with exceptional organizational abilities who remain composed in fast-paced environments and enjoy being at the center of a medical office. 4. Surgical Technician What is a Surgical Technician? Surgical technicians, also called surgical technologists or operating room technicians, assist surgeons during operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange surgical instruments, and maintain a sterile environment. Qualifications Needed: High school diploma or GED required Completion of a surgical technology program required Certification through NBSTSA is highly recommended or required Training programs typically take 12-24 months Median Annual Salary $62,830; up to $90,700 How to Get a Job Complete an accredited surgical technology program, obtain certification, and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions in hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers. Who Should Consider This Career People who maintain composure under stress and possess meticulous attention to detail along with stamina. If you are technically minded and fascinated by surgical procedures, you will find this high-paying job intellectually challenging. 5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) What is an Emergency Medical Technician? EMTs provide emergency medical care to patients before and during transportation to hospitals. They respond to emergency calls, perform basic medical interventions, and transport patients safely to medical facilities. Qualifications Needed: High school diploma or GED required Completion of the EMT training program is required National certification through NREMT required State licensure required Training programs typically take 3-6 months Median Annual Salary $41,340; up to $60,780 How to Get a Job Complete an accredited EMT training program, obtain national certification and state licensure, and apply to positions with ambulance services, fire departments, or hospitals. Who Should Consider This Career Natural problem-solvers who thrive in high-pressure situations and are driven to help others in crisis. The role demands physical fitness, emotional resilience, and the ability to make quick decisions in unpredictable environments. 6. Dental Assistant What is a Dental Assistant? Dental assistants support dentists during examinations and procedures. They prepare patients, sterilize instruments, process X-rays, provide patient education, and handle administrative tasks in dental offices. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required Completion of dental assisting program preferred Certification preferred or required (varies by state) Some states allow on-the-job training Training programs typically take 9-12 months Median Annual Salary $47,300; up to $61,780 How to Get a Job Complete a dental assisting program, obtain certification through the Dental Assisting National Board if required in your state, and gain experience through externships or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career People with excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. Those interested in oral health who prefer a stable work environment with regular hours will find satisfaction in this role. 7. Phlebotomist What is a Phlebotomist? Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, or blood donations. They verify patient identity, explain procedures, collect and properly label samples, and ensure proper storage and transport of specimens. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required Completion of phlebotomy program preferred Certification preferred Training programs typically take 4-8 months Median Annual Salary $43,660; up to $57,750 How to Get a Job Complete a phlebotomy training program, obtain certification through organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career Individuals with steady hands, meticulous attention to detail, and a calming presence. People who are comfortable with drawing blood and can work efficiently while maintaining accuracy will find consistent demand for their skills across various healthcare settings. 8. EKG Technician What is an EKG Technician? EKG (electrocardiogram) technicians, also called cardiac monitoring technicians, perform diagnostic tests that record the electrical activity of patients' hearts. They operate EKG machines, prepare patients for procedures, and maintain equipment. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required Completion of the EKG technician program preferred Certification preferred Training programs typically take 4-6 months Median Annual Salary $67,260; up to $108,900 How to Get a Job Complete an EKG technician training program, obtain certification through organizations like Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), and gain experience through clinical rotations or entry-level positions. Who Should Consider This Career Technically-minded individuals with strong attention to detail and interest in cardiac care. These high-paying jobs are ideal for those who enjoy working with specialized medical equipment and can establish rapport with patients of all ages. 9. Home Health Aide What is a Home Health Aide? Home health aides provide personal care and basic health services to patients in their homes. They assist with daily activities, monitor vital signs, administer medications, and provide companionship to elderly, disabled, or recovering individuals. Qualifications Needed: A high school diploma or GED is typically required (some positions accept candidates without one) Certification requirements vary by state Some states require formal training (typically 75-120 hours) Some employers provide on-the-job training Median Annual Salary $34,900; up to $44,190 How to Get a Job Complete a training program if required in your state, obtain certification if necessary, and apply to home health agencies, hospice organizations, or directly with families seeking private care. Who Should Consider This Career Compassionate individuals who prefer one-on-one care relationships and independent work environments. Those who gain fulfillment from helping vulnerable populations maintain dignity, and independence will find this role increasingly valued as the population ages. 10. Medical Records Specialist What is a Medical Records Specialist? Medical records specialists, also called health information technicians, organize, manage, and protect patient's health information data. They ensure records are accurate, complete, properly coded for insurance reimbursement, and securely maintained in compliance with regulations. Qualifications Needed High school diploma or GED required Certification typically required Some employers prefer associate degrees Many accept certificates in medical coding or health information technology Training programs typically take 6-12 months Median Annual Salary $50,250; up to $80,950 How to Get a Job Complete a certificate program in health information technology or medical coding, obtain certification through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), and develop proficiency with electronic health record systems. Who Should Consider This Career Detail-oriented individuals with strong analytical skills who prefer behind-the-scenes roles. People who value precision, are interested in healthcare documentation and prefer remote work will find this high-paying job particularly appealing. The Future Of Non-Degreed Healthcare Careers The aging population in the U.S. is increasing significantly, driven by the number of baby boomers aged 65 and older. By 2050, this age group is set to reach 82 million, a 47% increase from 2022. This surge, combined with longer life expectancies and an increase in the number of people with chronic conditions, means there will be more demand for high-paying jobs in healthcare that don't require a degree. Overall, the outlook for the healthcare industry looks promising, especially if you want to find positions that offer flexibility, generous compensation, and an opportunity to improve patients' quality of life.
