Habits and routines in the daily management of hypertension.

Two purposive case studies illustrate the role of habits and routines in illness management and how they are addressed in the clinical encounter. We argue habits and routines are related, but distinct constructs, and that by overlooking habits and routines, providers may be missing key opportunities to influence behaviour change. Utilization of 'habit-changing' professionals or health coaches who have the opportunity to communicate with patients on a regular basis in their daily living environment is proposed.