New 'UC Way' Algorithm Successfully Lowers Hypertension for Thousands Across California’s Academic Medical Centers

A UCSF-led study shows the UC Way Hypertension Medication Algorithm improved blood pressure control for 90,000 patients, averting dozens of strokes and deaths.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 19, 2026, 7:06 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from University of California - San Francisco

A Systemic Response to a National Health Crisis

High blood pressure remains a primary driver of mortality in the United States, affecting nearly half of the adult population and serving as a precursor to heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease. In response, the University of California’s six academic medical centers have successfully deployed the "UC Way Hypertension Medication Algorithm." This new study, published in BMJ Open Quality, reveals that the initiative has effectively stabilized blood pressure for approximately 4,860 individuals who previously lacked control, marking one of the few successful large-scale implementations of a standardized hypertension protocol in a major health system.

The Mechanics of the UC Way Medication Algorithm

The UC Way tool functions as a stepwise clinical guide, integrated directly into the university's electronic health records to assist physicians in escalating medication types and dosages. Developed by a multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, pharmacists, and data scientists, the algorithm emphasizes medication affordability while maintaining the flexibility for clinicians to adjust treatments for specific populations, such as the elderly. By reducing treatment variation across California’s diverse patient base, the tool ensures that high-quality, evidence-based care is the baseline for every outpatient visit.

Quantifying Life Saving Outcomes and Prevented Disabilities

The impact of the two-year program, which concluded in mid-2025, translates into significant real-world health outcomes. Lead author Dr. Sandeep P. Kishore noted that the improvement in control rates likely averted 72 strokes, 48 heart attacks, and 38 deaths across the state. These figures represent more than just statistics; they signify thousands of Californians who avoided emergency room visits and long-term disabilities. The success of the program highlights the power of "engineering predictability" into chronic disease management through standardized digital tools.