Can TElemedicine system replace doctor consultations to Achieve non-inferior blood pressure in patients with Controlled Hypertension (TEACH)? Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Abstract Background Hypertension is the most prevalent chronic condition and is the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, imposing enormous burdens on the healthcare system. Although telemedicine may provide improved blood pressure (BP) monitoring and control, it remains unclear whether it could replace face-to-face consultations for patients with optimal BP control. Thus, the primary objective of this study is to investigate whether participants assigned to the telemedicine group show non-inferior BP control compared to the usual care group at 12 months. Methods This randomised controlled trial (RCT) will involve 364 patients receiving anti-HT medications who have well-controlled BP on out-of-office BP measurements, including HBPM or ambulatory blood pressure measurements (ABPM). Participants will be randomised to either the telemedicine (HealthCap) group or usual care (control) group (1:1). Patients in the intervention group will measure and transmit their 7-day home BP measurements (HBPM) to the physician’s office. The medications will be refilled without consultation when optimal control (