Denton

Researchers are evaluating a program called LINKED-HEARTS aimed at improving health outcomes for adults with uncontrolled high blood pressure who also have type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease. This trial involves 600 adults receiving care at community health centers and compares usual care with an enhanced program that includes home blood pressure monitoring linked to telemonitoring technology and team-based support. The goal is to reduce blood pressure, lower blood sugar levels, and improve kidney function through integrated clinical and community support. The study has two groups one receives enhanced usual care with home blood pressure monitors, and the other participates in the LINKED-HEARTS Program. Participants in the LINKED-HEARTS group will use the Omron 10 series blood pressure monitor with the Sphygmo telemonitoring app. They will also receive education and support from community health workers and telehealth visits with pharmacists who collaborate with providers to optimize medication. The enhanced usual care group also uses the blood pressure monitor with training but receives standard care from their primary doctors. Participants will measure and transmit blood pressure data using the telemonitoring app, and their health will be tracked over 12 months. Researchers will assess blood pressure control, changes in blood pressure readings, blood sugar levels, body mass index, kidney function, and quality of life. The study includes regular monitoring and support to help participants manage their chronic conditions. Total participation lasts at least one year, with outcome measurements at baseline, 12 months, and some quality of life assessments continuing to 24 months.

This research aims to evaluate a peer-led, brief behavioral intervention designed to improve medication adherence for opioid use disorder MOUD and reduce polysubstance use among patients with opioid use disorder OUD and polysubstance use in underserved areas. The study focuses on a behavioral activation BA approach delivered by trained peer recovery specialists PRSs and compares it to treatment as usual TAU over a 12-month period. The trial addresses challenges in OUD treatment retention, especially in communities with limited access to addiction care and rising stimulant use. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the Peer Activate intervention or enhanced treatment as usual. Those in the Peer Activate group will receive about six weekly core sessions, lasting 30 minutes to one hour, led by PRSs teaching behavioral activation and problem-solving skills. Additionally, up to six optional booster sessions are available to reinforce these skills. The TAU group receives standard telemedicine services enhanced with community referrals and follow-ups, plus regular meetings with addiction medicine physicians and PRSs for general support. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored with urinalysis and self-reports to assess polysubstance use, treatment retention, and medication adherence over six months. Researchers will also track intervention attendance, uptake, and fidelity. The trial includes multiple assessments to measure problems related to substance use and the effectiveness of peer-delivered behavioral activation in improving outcomes for patients receiving telemedicine buprenorphine treatment. Total participation and follow-up last at least 12 months.