Understanding Patient Perceptions of Hypertension for Optimal Management in a Student-Run Free Clinic.

The burden of hypertension (HTN) is disproportionately high among adults with low socio-economic status. Our objective was to examine the knowledge, attitudes and barriers related to HTN among this cohort. Using a mixed-methods approach, we interviewed twenty adults at a student-run safety-net health clinic. Most patients recognized HTN-related risks, but themes of denial, financial burden and misinformation emerged when addressing treatment adherence. Our findings highlight an urgent need to address patient-centric approaches in HTN management.