Nephrology Team at Jersey Shore University Medical Center Provides Care for Complicated Cases at Hypertension Center

Center is one of only a few in the nation and is applying for American Heart Association certification

Hypertension is responsible for 70% of first-time strokes, heart attack and heart failure. Addressing hypertension, especially among more complicated cases, as well as in underserved and uninsured communities, can have a dramatic effect on health care costs and hospital resource allocation.

To meet the needs of the community, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center’s Hypertension Center serves as a regional referral center for complicated, resistant, or refractory hypertensive patients, including treatment for pregnant women and those in younger age groups. Focusing on hypertension prevention and management in underserved communities, the center provides care regardless of insurance status. Patients participate in weekly consultations with nephrology and hypertension specialists who provide multidisciplinary care through diet, exercise, and medication strategies. Since the program has started, all patients have reached their target blood pressure by their second or third visit, achieved by a personalized care approach, involving tolerable and affordable blood pressure medication.

Calling on the expertise of two hypertension specialists, Arif Asif, M.D., and Avais Masud, M.D., the center has worked to fulfill the requirements to become an American Heart Association Certified Hypertension Center and has applied for this status. The close collaboration between Dr. Asif, Dr. Masud, as well as nephrology fellows, residents, and a dedicated nursing team, provides patients with the highest level of comprehensive care. The center also offers ample exposure to a wide diversity of patient cases, providing an ideal learning environment for fellows and residents.